14 Nov 2017 Sunraysia Daily, Mildura VIC (General News) THE 2017 Victorian Wine Show has received a $20,000 grant from the Victorian Governments Wine Growth Fund to help promote and celebrate the states wine industry. The Victorian Wine Show is the largest gathering of Victorian wines in any one place at Mitchelton Winery in Nagambie. The grant will be used for initiatives including the establishment of the Premiers Trophy, which will be awarded to the best wine from the regional wine show winners, making it the champion of champions. Winners will be announced at a luncheon to be held today. This new trophy aims to increase appreciation of the diversity and quality of Victorias wine regions, and recognises the support of the State Government. The grant will also fund a travel scholarship for a local winemaker to investigate a grape variety, region, wine style or technique. The winner will extend their knowledge of international wine trends, and bring the new expertise back into the Victorian industry. It will also allow the wine show to appoint esteemed overseas judges who can then act as ambassadors for Victorian wines, and foster the development of aspiring Victorian wine judges. The Wine Growth Fund is part of the governments $1 million election commitment to develop the states wine industry and has so far provided $720,000 in grants for 41 projects across the state. Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford said Victorias wine was among the worlds best, and it continued to sparkle thanks to events such as the Victorian Wine Show that cultivate excellence within the industry. This is our very first allocation of funding in round two of the Wine Growth Fund, she said. Were very excited to invest in the future of our esteemed growers and vineyards across the state. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the wine show brought major judges and officials to the heart of Nagambie, which provided an economic boost for the region. Caption Text: Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.