Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is thrilled to announce that Ed Carr, Chief Winemaker at House of Arras, has been awarded Sparkling Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge (IWC) in London this week.

Carr's achievement is not just a personal triumph but a milestone for Australian winemaking. He is the first Australian to achieve this honour in the competition's 40-year history and only the second non-Champagne winner.

House of Arras, an Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia member, is dedicated to crafting outstanding sparkling wines that showcase Tasmania’s cool climate and ancient soils. This recognition from a respected global competition validates their efforts, and Carr is delighted to share this award with the team.

The IWC is renowned as one of the world’s top wine competitions. With over 500 experts from more than 38 countries on its judging panel, winning an award here is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of the House of Arras sparkling wines.

This is Carr's second nomination, having been a finalist in 2022. He remains the only Australian to be shortlisted since the competition's results were first published in 2009.

Alongside Carr's remarkable win, House of Arras also claimed the Australian Sparkling Trophy for its 2014 Blanc de Blancs, in addition to two gold and six silver medals.

On Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia's exclusive House of Arras 40 Years of Tirage experience, you have the opportunity to request Ed Carr himself to host the experience, offering a unique journey with the master of Tasmania's finest sparkling wines. This experience includes a private tasting of prized sparkling wines, a guided vineyard tour, and a vertical tasting of the Museum Cellar EJ Carr Late Disgorged Editions. Complete your visit with a picnic of artisanal Tasmanian produce while enjoying stunning vineyard views. Private helicopter transfers are also available for this unparalleled VIP experience.