On the 3rd September the IWC played host to one of the largest gatherings of the global wine trade in many years. We revealed the champions of the 2008 competition on an evening that is generally accepted as the Oscars of the wine trade. People came from around the world to collect their awards at the Grosvenor House, one of London’s most prestigious hotels. They were not disappointed.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to arguably the master of the Masters of Wine Michael Broadbent. He was given a standing ovation that any politician would have been proud of and then went on to praise the IWC not only for its judging process but also for hosting what in his words was the biggest gathering of the trade since the 60s. He also related some of his tasting experiences that probably should not go into print!

To review all the winners click here.