According to Wine Australia, the home-grown wine defeated some of the biggest names from around the world to be judged the "best of the best".

And, it reports that at an equally prestigious event an Australian also took out the honours for the acclaimed International Red Winemaker of the Year award at the 2008 International Wine Challenge in London.

Wine Australia says Australia's growing prominence in top-price wines was clear with 77pc of Australian medal winners in the competitions in the "over £10" category.

"The full gamut of Australia's offering was rewarded, storming to victory in the 'Under £10' ($A20.50) category as well as winning more Gold medals than any other country," it reports.