Toni Paterson MW is one of Australia’s leading wine commentators. Toni has judged at many international wine shows including the Decanter World Wine Awards, International Wine Challenge & International Wine and Spirit Competition.

With Agnew Wines, Xanthe’s playground includes Audrey Wilkinson, Cockfighter’s Ghost and Pooles Rock with award-winning vineyards, cellar doors, and wineries situated amongst some of the Hunter Valley’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Peter is a highly proficient technical winemaker, consultant and sought-after wine show judge, who has been a stalwart of the awards from the beginning. Peter filled in as Chairperson in 2021.

Janelle completed her batchelor of Oenology at Adelaide University in 2002. She has completed 18 vintages since then at Z Wines in the Barossa Valley.

Sabine is an experienced Buyer and Wine Educator, skilled in aspects of Food & Beverage, Wineries and brand development. WSET Diploma qualified, Sabine is a part-time lecturer at the Sydney Wine Academy.

Chris joined the family business and winemaking team in 2002. He now has 21 vintages under the belt. Chris released Australia’s first commercial grüner from the 2009 vintage and was a Young Guns of wine finalist in 2017.

Michelle brings a strong technical background in Oenology and viticulture to the Awards. Previous to Knappstein, Michelle was Assistant Winemaker with Project wine for 4 years and a Lab Technician with Cumulus wines.

Ryan completed his degree from Charles Sturt Uni in 2011 whilst serving as Assistant Winemaker with Hardy’s and Winemaker at Flying Fish Cove. Ryan then spent 4 years with Houghtons, before securing the gig with Aravina in 2016.

Tanya joined the team in 2023 as a steward, but it was quickly apparent that she wanted to be completely emersed in the workings of the Boutique Wine Awards. In 2024, Tanya managed all of the operations for the Boutique Wine Awards, whilst also being appointed as a Associate wine judge for the same show. Tanya is a current WSET student with a passion for the global wine industry, and we are lucky to have her running our back office operations. From 2025 onwards, Tanya will also run all back of house operations for the Global Fine Wine Challenge

Addy brings more than 30 years in the services and hospitality industry to the table, including two decades experience as a Sommelier. With a demonstrated history of work with a numbers of 3 Hatted restaurants and Top 50 Restaurants around the world, Addy’s skills in Food & Beverage operation, wine program management, marketing, and training make him a valuable addition to the team.