Winemakers and producers from across Australia gathered last night for the 2027 Halliday Wine Companion Awards, with the Hunter Valley taking home multiple accolades.
Following a year of tastings from more than 1000 wineries, Broke Fordwich’s Margan Wines was awarded the trophy for Other Reds & Blends of the Year for its Saxonvale Mourvèdre 2024.
It was the sustainably certified vineyard’s first varietal category win, with the wine described by the judges as “a pristine example of mourvèdre”.
Toni Paterson MW said: “This is a stunning example of mourvèdre, sweet-fruited and supple, with fabulous depth. Fragrant morello cherry, blueberries, subtle herbs and loam. The energy, shape and flow set this wine apart from others. A true Hunter highlight!”
Dalwood Estate won the inaugural Fiano of the Year for its Dalwood Estate Fiano 2025, while Semillon of the Year was awarded to Tyrrell’s Wines Johnno's Semillon 2025.
In a poignant moment for the industry, Hunter Valley legend Bruce Tyrrell AM was inducted into the James Halliday Hall of Fame.
Recognised for his unparalleled contribution to the Australian wine industry, he became only the fourth person to ever receive Halliday’s highest honour.
The judges said the winemaker was unrivalled among his peers, not only as an advocate for the ageability of Australian semillon, but foremost as a champion of the Hunter Valley.
Two NSW wineries were among the Halliday Wine Companion's 2027 People's Choice Award winners for best winery experience in Australia.
More than 8000 people voted in this year's awards, with the top 10 including the Hunter Valley's Brokenwood in fourth place and Audrey Wilkinson in ninth place.
Regarding Brokenwood, Halliday Wine Companion said: “Brokenwood in the Hunter Valley offers everything from standard cellar door tastings of its highly rated wines, either with or without special food pairings, to more in-depth winery experiences.
“Enjoy a meal at The Wood restaurant, which heroes local, seasonal produce, or go all-out with the Soil to Cellar Experience. The latter begins with oysters and a glass of Brokenwood Semillon, followed by a personalised tour of the property and a four-course lunch.”
Regarding Audrey Wilkinson, Halliday Wine Companion said: “Audrey Wilkinson is one of the Hunter Valley’s most historic wineries, with vines first planted by the Wilkinson family in 1866.
“Set in Pokolbin at the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges, its hilltop cellar door offers guided tastings showcasing classic Hunter Valley varieties, including semillon, chardonnay and shiraz.
“Visitors can also choose from immersive experiences such as a picnic among the vines and fortified wine and cheese pairings, or visit the free onsite museum, housed in the original winery, which showcases historic winemaking equipment and traces the Wilkinson family’s legacy.”
The announcement of the awards coincides with the release of The Halliday Wine Companion 2027. The 41st annual release features comprehensive reviews and judges' tasting notes from the best wines reviewed across the year, with each winery given a star rating out of five.
Learn more here.
