The Encouragement Award for up and coming Riesling Winemakers is a cash prize of AU$3000.00 which will be awarded to a wine made by a person who is in their first seven years of winemakeing (see condition 21).

Nominations for this award are to be made by selecting the “Encouragement Award” box on the CIRC Entry Form or on the online entry system.

This Award is sponsored by Shaw Vineyard Estate and Kamberra Wine Company.

2011 Inaugural Award Winner

Jacob Stein, Robert Stein Winery.  Jacob returned home to Mudgee in 2008 to become the third generation winemaker to be involved with Robert Stein Winery in Mudgee.  He completed his Bachelor of Viticulture and Winemaking Degree and has worked eight vintages away from home including in the Rheingau and Rheinhessen regions of Germany as well as Piedmonte in Italy and Ontario, Canada.  Jacob is the youngest winemaker in Mudgee, however his experience afield has led to some great show success for the Robert Stein brand.

Riesling is Jacob’s favourite variety and he believes that Riesling is becoming a star in Mudgee.  The altitude and continental climate provides cool nights during maturation, which allows better natural acid retention and clean crisp wines.

Jacob Stein accepting the 2011 Encouragement Award