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Western Australian winemaker joins AWRI as newly appointed dux

AWRI

Former winemaker at Cape Mentelle Vineyards, Ben Cane, was appointed as the dux of the 52nd Advanced Wine Assessment Course by The Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI).

Cane is soon to be owner, winemaker, and grower for a long-established premium label in the Southern region.

“This course has shaped how I approach wine tasting and has enabled me to distil down what is important and explainable to fellow tasters,” Cane said.

“Ultimately, I hope this brings more opportunities to progress and develop in my career with the simple goal of making ever more delicious wine.”

The selection of the dux of each course is based on statistical scores, verbal skills, and group interaction. Twelve leading wine show judges, journalists and winemakers contribute to the delivery of the course alongside AWRI staff.

Group manager Con Simos – Industry Development and Support at AWRI, who is responsible for the course – said that the decision was following his clear communications and considered approach to tasting.

“The AWRI is delighted to continue its partnership with the National Wine Show of Australia,” Simos said. “Ben is a worthy dux recipient who will gain a great deal from this associate judging opportunity.”

The AWAC, presented by the AWRI, prepares potential new wine show judges, and develop the sensory analysis capabilities and vocabulary of Australian wine professionals at an elite level. Participants are put through an intensive four-day program of wine sensory education and assessment.

As dux, Cane will be invited to attend a future National Wine Show of Australia in Canberra as an associate judge.

“The course taught me not only to focus my palate – but to listen to a broad range of perspectives, to re-taste a wine and adjust and learn from perhaps what I had not considered,” Cane said.

“I hope the introduction to the wine show system will help me to better understand the evolution of the Australian wine industry and the tastes of the Australian consumer.”

Jade Psihogios.

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