Township 7 Vineyards & Winery has won the coveted trophy for Best Canadian Sparkling Wine at the 2023 Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships in London, England.

The award was given to Township 7鈥檚 seven stars RIGEL sparkling wine, marking a historic first for an aromatic wine winning this category. The winery was also a runner-up for World Champion Aromatic Sparkling Wine.

Township 7鈥檚 seven stars RIGEL secured a Gold award and was crowned National Champion Best Canadian Sparkling Wine following a rigorous blind tasting process.

The wine, a 2020 vintage, was lauded by the championships for its 鈥渢rue variety, petrol-y Riesling鈥� character, showcasing 鈥減ristine, crunchy fruit, fresh feistiness, and a fine balance with elegant, light toastiness.鈥� This marks the second time, Township 7 has been awarded this honour, having previously won the National Champion title in 2019 for seven stars POLARIS.

鈥淲e鈥檙e truly honoured to be recognized with this prestigious award for seven stars RIGEL at the foremost international sparkling wine competition globally,鈥� said Mike Raffan, Township 7 general manager. 鈥淭ownship 7鈥檚 sparkling program began over two decades ago with our inaugural seven stars vintage in 1999, and we鈥檙e thrilled with the reception of our cuv茅es over that time. With Mary鈥檚 extensive expertise in traditional method wines, we鈥檙e excited to continue this sparkling future.鈥�

Winemaker Mary McDermott said the recognition highlights the remarkable terroir of B.C.

鈥淲e take great pride in earning Best Sparkling in Canada and are honoured to stand alongside esteemed global Champagne leaders,鈥� said McDermott.