National Wine Show 13 June 26
A VineTales tasting session
About This Tasting
The 2026 National Wine Show of Australia, celebrating its 51st edition and 50th anniversary milestone, assessed a record 1,085 entries from across the country. Held in mid-May at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra, the competition awarded 126 Gold, 262 Silver, and 388 Bronze medals. Under the guidance of Chair of Judges Matt Harrop, a panel of 12 experts evaluated a diverse scope of classes including Sparkling, Chardonnay, Riesling, and various red varietals. A major highlight was Xanadu’s 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, which secured both the James Halliday Red Wine of Show and the prestigious Prime Minister’s Champion Wine of Show trophy. Other significant honors included Evans & Tate’s 2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay winning White Wine of Show. The event showcased the prowess of Australian cool-climate regions, particularly Tasmania and the Yarra Valley, while highlighting a significant growth in 'Other' varietal classes such as Chenin Blanc, Grenache, and Mencia.
My Session Reflection
Walking through the National Wine Show, I found myself tethered to a distinct pattern of elegance and structure. The session revealed a clear preference for the vibrant sparklings of Tasmania, particularly the Arras Rosé vintage entries, which balanced fruit and finesse effortlessly. A common thread emerged between the maritime influence of Margaret River and the spicy depths of the ACT’s Sapling Yard Shiraz Viognier. My palate kept returning to the classic poise of Cabernet blends and the aromatic lift of Shiraz; the Hamelin Bay Rampant Red was a standout for its immediate approachability. Exploring Muscat from Rutherglen alongside sophisticated fizz like the Michelini Prosecco broadened my appreciation for the sheer diversity currently thriving in Australian glass. This afternoon felt like a masterclass in regional identity, making it a landmark session for the discovery of refined textures and impeccable balance.
Top Wines
- Morris Old Premium Rare MuscatMorrisRutherglen · Muscat
- Hanwood Estate Rare Muscat Aged 20 YearsMcWilliam'sHanwood · Muscat
- Cellar Reserve Grand MuscatMorrisRutherglen · Muscat
- Small Batch Release Nero D'Avola · 2024Chalk HillMcLaren Vale · Nero D'Avola
- Grenache Shiraz Touriga · 2023S.C. PANNELLMCLAREN VALE · Grenache Shiraz Touriga
Favourite Regions
Favourite Varieties
Top buy candidates
All Wines Tasted
25 wines tasted in this session
- Morris Old Premium Rare MuscatMorrisRutherglen · MuscatBuy again
- Hanwood Estate Rare Muscat Aged 20 YearsMcWilliam'sHanwood · MuscatBuy again
- Cellar Reserve Grand MuscatMorrisRutherglen · MuscatBuy again
- Small Batch Release Nero D'Avola · 2024Chalk HillMcLaren Vale · Nero D'AvolaBuy again
- Grenache Shiraz Touriga · 2023S.C. PANNELLMCLAREN VALE · Grenache Shiraz TourigaBuy again