Excellence in Food and Drink Awards 2007
Category: Alcoholic Drinks
Winner: Steng Ingredients - Slow Roast Tomato Tapenade
First Step Shiraz comes from the South Australian Riverland (85%) and Langhorne Creek (15%). Judges were overwhelmingly complimentary about the red wine, describing it as "excellent", "palatable", "velvety" and "easy to drink". One judge said: "You wouldn't be disappointed." The cherry plum-coloured red wine is described by PLB as full, soft and textured, showing berry fruits' smooth tannins, and it smells of gorgeous violets and florals over rich, plummy fruit.
Several judges praised the wine's "floral aroma" and one said "the plum smells really come through". Another judge commented that the wine would make a good accompaniment for game. The judges also thought the wine was good value for money.
The Step Road winery was established in 1998 by Rob Dundon, a 1974 Roseworthy Agricultural College graduate with more than 1,000 medals to his name. Langhorne Creek winery has a modern and contemporary winemaking approach with the goal of producing wines rich in fruit, flavour and intensity with an appealing softness.
All waste from the winery is recycled and utilised in the vineyards, and the company has won awards for its low-impact environmental policy and design.
Shortlisted
PLB Wines Vina Ventisquero Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2006
InBev Leffe Brun
InBev Leffe Blond