Henschke has triumphed as Australia’s most globally revered wine brand in Drinks International’s The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands 2021.

The South Australian winery took out the No.4 spot on the list, with Drinks International noting: “Henschke’s Hill of Grace is one of a select bunch of Australian wines held in such high regard by wine lovers that are truly worthy of the description ‘iconic’.”

Henschke said: “We’re thrilled to be ranked No. 4 in the top 50 World’s Most Admired Wine Brands 2021 and named The Most Admired Wine Brand in Australasia by Drinks International overnight!”

Winepilot.com describes the upcoming 2016 release of Hill of Grace as having “fantastic impact on the palate and density of fruit, which is still tight and firm. Waves of dark fruit are lifted by earthy spice and wrapped up in a blanket of tannins which help to draw out a long and strong finish which, combined with raw power, makes this wine close to perfection.” 

The brands were chosen by the world’s leading wine experts, including buyers, sommeliers, wholesalers, bar owners, Masters of Wine, writers and educators from 48 different countries.

Only three other Australian brands made the top 50: Penfolds at No.6; Yalumba at No.16; and McGuigan at No.42.

Familia Torres from Spain surged to the number 1 spot in the rankings. Catena, a family-owned winery in Mendoza with a reputation for producing some of the world’s finest Malbec, finished second, retaining its crown as the Most Admired Wine Brand in South America.

Another Spanish brand, Vega Sicilia, finished third. Henschke was fourth, with Chilean powerhouse Concha y Toro next in fifth position.

Drinks International editor Martin Green said: “The Most Admired Wine Brands 2021 highlights the most iconic, exciting and innovative producers in the world.

“To win a place on this prestigious list is a tremendous achievement. There are thousands of wine brands vying for attention around the world, but just 50 elite icons have made the cut.

“Congratulations to all of the brands featured this year. They have earned the respect of hundreds of wine professionals and experts spread across the globe, and they have now gained the ultimate stamp of quality.

“Strong brands will play a vital role in leading the wine trade to a healthy future as the world emerges from Covid-19 lockdowns. The wineries featured on this list act as regional champions, category signposts and industry leaders, and they have the potential to steer the wine trade into a new Roaring Twenties.”

Here’s the Top 50 list:

You can read The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands 2021 magazine here to learn more about the brands featured on the list.