ICC Sydney Sets New Benchmark for Wine Tourism, Wins Prestigious NSW Award for One Hundred Percent Local Wine Curation, What You Need to Know

Friday, May 30, 2025

In a groundbreaking achievement that bridges luxury hospitality with regional sustainability, the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) has been named the 2025 winner of the Best NSW Wine List in a Caterer or Functions Venue at the prestigious NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards. The accolade celebrates the venue’s unwavering commitment to local wine curation and marks a pivotal moment for Australia’s premium wine tourism industry.

While many venues aim to impress with expansive global lists, ICC Sydney stands apart with its bold decision to exclusively serve wines sourced from across New South Wales. This 100% local wine strategy not only elevates the event experience for millions of guests annually but also injects critical economic support into regional vineyards and communities.

Since its opening in December 2016, ICC Sydney has poured over 400,000 bottles of NSW wine at major galas, conventions, and entertainment events. In doing so, the venue has directed more than AUD 77 million into the state’s food and beverage producers. That level of commitment has now earned widespread industry acclaim and recognition.

The engine behind this success? Visionary leadership. ICC Sydney’s Food and Beverage Manager and Sommelier, William Wilson, in partnership with General Manager of Operations Lynell Peck, have expertly curated a list that captures the rich diversity of NSW terroirs. From Hunter Valley Semillon to Orange-region Shiraz, the wine list reads like a map of regional pride.

In FY2024/25 alone, ICC Sydney is forecast to channel AUD 9.8 million in direct spending into NSW’s food and beverage ecosystem. That’s not just business—it’s a mission to nurture local excellence and tell the stories of regional producers on a global stage.

The awards, hosted by the NSW Wine Industry Association and Destination NSW, were judged by some of the nation’s top experts in food and drink. Their decision reflects more than just quality wines—it affirms ICC Sydney’s vision for sustainable luxury.

This year’s win marks the fourth time ICC Sydney has topped its category and its sixth time as a finalist. Each win reflects not only consistency but also an evolving commitment to excellence that adapts with market demands and guest expectations.

Tourism operators, event planners, and travel advisors are now paying close attention to this win. ICC Sydney’s success story sends a strong message to the global hospitality sector: that locally sourced, regionally proud wine programs are more than a trend—they are the future.

Moreover, it demonstrates how award-winning wine curation can enhance a destination’s global image. By making NSW wines the star of its culinary show, ICC Sydney positions itself as a champion of provenance and authenticity in a competitive global events market.

The recognition also boosts Sydney’s appeal as a premium wine tourism destination. With millions of international delegates passing through ICC Sydney annually, many are introduced to NSW wine for the first time through the venue’s expertly curated list—sparking demand for vineyard visits and regional wine experiences beyond the city.

This ripple effect not only boosts wine tourism in destinations like the Hunter Valley, Mudgee, and Southern Highlands but also strengthens the value proposition of Australia as a whole for global wine lovers.

In an age where conscious consumption matters, ICC Sydney is showing the world how events and hospitality can serve something bigger than profit. Through its curated wine experience, it is nurturing a cultural narrative—one bottle, one guest, one event at a time.

And with its latest win in the 2025 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards, ICC Sydney has firmly placed itself on the map as more than a venue. It is now a leader in reshaping what the world expects from luxury hospitality and responsible tourism.