The winemaker won the Fortified Wine of the Year at the International Wine Challenge for its Morris Old Premium Rare Liqueur Tokay.

Chief winemaker David Morris was also named runner-up in the winemaker of the year award.

Morris spokesman Angus Barnes said the awards, which were held in London on Wednesday, were the “Oscars” of the wine industry.

“There are 10 wine shows in the world that are in the top echelon,” he said.

“We put this one right at the top of that group.

“I think it’s a great recognition of both Morris’ contribution, but also the Rutherglen contribution, to Tokay and Muscat in the world of fortified wine.

“They’re unique wines which are sought after and highly awarded.”

The winery won a total of four gold medals and two trophies for various wines at the ceremony.

Nine staff at the business produce 28 wines covering fortified, still and sparkling ranges.

Mr Barnes hopes the award will open new markets for the company, which sells to Britain and the US.

“The big opportunity markets are in Asia; China and Japan,” he said.

“The market for Australian wines is a bit challenging at the moment, but we are seeing an increase in people wanting value per bottle.

“People want less quantity, better quality, which plays into the hands of a region like Rutherglen that is focused on premium wines.”

The market is oversupplied with cheap wine, Mr Barnes said.

“There’s been pressure on growers and producers which has resulted in oversupply.”

“But we’re not at the price fighting end of the market, we’re making quality wines at a price above the commercial end.”

Morris of Rutherglen started in 1859.