LOCAL wineries have continued their assault on the international stage by scooping the pool at a series of prestigious wine competitions.

The 2009 International Wine and Spirit Competition in London was a particularly sweet one for local winery Nugan Estate.

Nugan received a gold medal for its Riverina Botrytis Semillon and a place in the finals of the Australian Wine Producer of the Year, to be announced in London next Thursday.

"It's an endorsement of what we believe � telling the world Australia has a regional story and our wines are made to reflect the unique characteristics of our regions," chief winemaker Daren Owers said.

"I am extremely proud of our whole team and the Nugan family for investing in these vineyards."

Berton Vineyard also impressed, winning three best in class awards, three silver medals and three bronze medals.

Meanwhile, Tharbogang-based Quarisa Wines won a gold trophy and several silver and bronze medals in the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition.