Bill Calabria A Riverina Legend

Bill Calabria AM has been named Riverina Legend at the 2021 Riverina Wine Show after the Calabria Family Wine Group won six trophies and the award for Most Successful Exhibitor for the third consecutive year.

“What an honour to be the recipient of the Riverina Legend award,” says Bill, who started working at the family winery when he was 14.

“I am grateful to my distinguished peers and Riverina neighbours for continuing to support our family, even through the most challenging times in our 76-year history.

“I have always believed the Riverina to be incredibly underrated, both locally and globally, but through our consistency of quality wines from year to year, the region continues to be the heart of the NSW wine industry.

“One thing that stands out is the incredible sense of community and camaraderie found in the region and I send my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to the ongoing success of our family winery over the past seven decades.”

NSW Wine Industry Association president Mark Bourne says, “This deserved recognition of Bill’s accomplishments are borne from his passion, innovation and commitment to the Riverina, New South Wales and Australian wine industry over many years.

“We look forward to the exciting future for Bill and the entire Calabria family as they continue to play a significant role in the prosperity and growth of the Riverina for generations to come.”

Calabria Three Bridges Durif 2019 won the trophy for Best Riverina Durif, with McWilliam’s winning both the Best Riverina Dry White and Dry Red Trophies for the On the Grapevine Pinot Gris 2020 and Alternis Nero D’Avola 2021 respectively.

In the Australian Italian Varieties Wine Awards, McWilliam’s Alternis Nero D’Avola 2021 also took home the Chief Judge’s Award for Most Exciting Wine.

In the Tumbarumba GI Wine Show, McWilliam’s 480 Estate Chardonnay 2019 received Best Young White and Wine of Show in the regional competition.