The awards are a celebration recognising the outstanding achievements of those who have made a major contribution and excelled within the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industries.

Braemore Vineyard owner Ken Bray has been inducted as the Hunter Valley wine industry’s latest Living Legend, a significant addition to the “hall of fame” which for the first time recognised the industry contribution of a viticulturist rather than a winemaker.

Mr. Bray, the owner of Braemore vineyard, has contributed more than 40 years to the Hunter Valley wine industry.

Widely regarded as the Hunter Valley’s leading viticulturist, he has been responsible for tending some of the region’s most cherished vineyards for almost 40 years. 

He began his career at Wyndham Estate in the mid-1960s and has worked in all facets of the industry – spanning winemaking, viticulture, packaging, distribution, sales and marketing.

Mr. Bray and his wife Chris have owned Braemore Vineyard for more than 20 years, continually producing award-winning wines each season.

Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association vice-president Andrew Margan gave special recognition to the record number of entries and the high calibre of this year’s finalists.

“Ken Bray has been inducted as our newest Hunter Valley Legend for his enormous contribution to viticulture in the region spanning over 40 years,” Mr. Margan said.

“It’s terrific to see someone who still actively contributes to the region through their own vineyard management business, as well as through our viticultural sub-committee being recognised in such light, and joining the long list of names which we salute.

“What stands out to me as this year’s highlight is the extremely high calibre of new blood that have excelled and taken out this year’s top awards.”

Michael De Iuliis of De Iuliis Wines was named the 2015 Winemaker of the Year.

The judges could not split the winners of the 2015 Rising Star of the Year, jointly awarded to Muse Restaurant and Muse Kitchen owners Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown, and Briar Ridge winemaker and general manager Gwyn Olsen.

The Viticulturist of the Year award went to Andrew Margan of Margan Family Wines, while Tyrrell’s Wines was named Cellar Door of the Year.

The 2015 Hunter Valley Award for Excellence went to Melissa Romeyn, for her dedication to the various associations that have been representing the Hunter Valley’s wine and tourism industries for many years.