The top 17 wines from the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion were revealed at the Halliday Awards on 20 August, 2025.
This year, the winning wines hailed from all across Australia, with some of the best regions including Margaret River, McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley, Tasmania, Hunter Valley and more well represented.
The 2026 Companion also saw the introduction of two new categories: Wildcard, won by the Lethbridge NV Yellow; and straight grenache, which in previous years was judged alongside grenache-based blends.
Grenache of the Year was won by Thistledown Wines This Charming Man Single Vineyard Clarendon Grenache 2024, which then went on to win Red Wine of the Year and Wine of the Year.
Find the full list of varietal category winners below.
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The 2026 edition of the seminal guide to Australian wine, the Halliday Wine Companion, is on sale now. Secure your copy today, or sign up to receive one as part of your Vintage Halliday membership.
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