International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) has bolstered its commitment to local producers, announcing it will now serve only NSW wines across its beverage menus.

Handpicked by respected sommelier and ICC Sydney beverage operations and cellar manager, William Wilson, the updated wine list was developed following an extensive blind tasting of over 400 wines.

Wilson said the 2020 Wine Collection drives visibility for local producers while setting the benchmark for wine.

“We are so proud to highlight the breadth and quality of wines that are being produced locally to our visitors,” he said.

To mark the commitment to local wines, ICC Sydney has released a four-part documentary series shining a light on the state’s wine industry.

Titled 100% Local, the series highlights stories of its partner producers and NSW’s winemaking history and also explores the challenges of a changing climate.

ICC Sydney CEO Geoff Donaghy said the 2020 Wine Collection and supporting documentary series strengthens the venue’s relationship with regional producers.

“We opened our doors with a clear promise to put regional winemakers first, and a wine menu comprising of 80 per cent NSW wines,” he said.

“We are proud today to increase this commitment to 100 per cent and launch a compelling new docu-series which shares the important stories behind these bottles.

“In doing so, we not only further our commitment to serve our guests the best drops in the world, but also support and champion our region’s producers at a time when they have faced unprecedented challenges.”

Bruce Tyrrell, managing director of Tyrrell’s Wine, which is featured in the series, said his partnership with ICC Sydney has allowed the company to rely on a “steady stream of support in a financial sense” and gain “immense exposure from our wines being served to millions of guests at the venue”.

“As an organisation, ICC Sydney is setting an example for what it means to responsibly invest in and champion local communities,” he said.

“We couldn’t be more appreciative of their ongoing support at this time.”

The first episode is available to watch below, with the next episodes set to roll out in the coming weeks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2Ey291TdLY&feature=youtu.be