The judges are carefully selected and include Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine who all serve or buy wine for their venues in the on-trade, or are leading consultants developing wine lists.

All the wines are blind tasted by category and are judged on food-friendliness, versatility, typicity, personality and importantly, value for money at whatever the price. Judges are shown the trade prices of each wine as they are judging a flight. If wines are ‘tight’ or young and expensive, they are decanted before tasting.

In the first round of judging, around 25% of entries receive a Commended classification, with about 50% of entries making it through to the next round. In the second round, the wines are considered for medal status: Bronze, Silver and the ultimate award, Gold.

Biddenden Schönburger takes a coveted place on the Gold List, and the jusges’ feedback included:

‘Refreshing and fruity with sweetness that isn’t over the top. There’s lively freshness with pineapple acidity.’ – Laurent Richet MS, team leader.

‘Some delicate aromatic peach and apricot notes here.’ – Sue Jones, The Harrow at Little Bedwyn.

‘Very elegant on the nose, and delicate on the palate – an option for a fine-dining wine list.’ – Gianluca Provenzani, Belmond Cadogan Hotel.

Alongside Biddenden Shönburger, Biddenden’s Gribble Bridge White 2018 was awarded a Highly Commended.

Both wines are available to order via our online shop for home delivery throughout Kent, the South East & Nationwide. Trade enquires always welcome.