As anybody who followed this year's Rugby World Cup knows, competition is all about suspense and surprise. And that was definitely true of the 2007 Tri Nations Wine Challenge. The trio of national judges are undeniably the most influential figures in the wine industries of their respective countries, so it was hardly surprising their team selections brought together a remarkable range of wines - almost certainly the finest ever. Inevitably, the judging was tougher than ever too, but diplomats representing their countries in other fields could learn a lot from the respect all three showed to each other's opinions and expertise.

I have chaired many competitions in many countries. None has ever combined the Tri Nations' quality of wines and judgment.