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Australia’s Winery of the Year

Editor

Brokenwood Wines has been named the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year, one of the most respected honours in Australian wine.

Selected ahead of 945 wineries from across the country, the award recognises over five decades of hard work, innovation and a focus on producing wines that truly reflect their vineyard origins.

Brokenwood began in 1970 as a weekend project for three Sydney solicitors. Today it is one of Australia’s most recognisable and respected wine brands, known for the flagship Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, benchmark ILR Semillon and an expanded portfolio, sourcing premium fruit from all the right regions, for all the right reasons.

Chief Winemaker Stuart Hordern said: “This is an incredible honour for everyone at Brokenwood. Our whole team is dedicated to producing wines that speak of their place and bring people joy when they share them.

“We’re so proud that our wines across a range of varieties, regions and price points have been recognised at this level. This is a win for the Hunter Valley, for our growers, and importantly for the legacy of everyone that has worked so hard to ensure the success of Brokenwood over the past 55 years.”

CEO Geoff Krieger said: “Brokenwood’s motto has always been ‘Make Great Wine and Have Fun’. This award is proof that you can stay true to your values while aiming for the highest quality.

“It’s recognition of the passion and professionalism of our entire team – from the vineyard to the cellar door – and of the loyalty of our wine club members and visitors who share in the journey.”

This year’s award follows another major milestone for Brokenwood, having been named Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association Cellar Door of the Year in 2025.

For the 2026 Companion, 18 Brokenwood wines were reviewed and 16 scored 95 points or above.

Halliday’s review noted: “We reviewed 18 wines from the Hunter Valley stalwart for the 2026 Companion, and 16 were awarded 95 points or over; no mean feat. Some of these wines have graced the pages of the guide since its inception.

“Beyond the flagships, we must also consider that Brokenwood produces wines at many price points and of excellent quality.”

Chief Winemaker Stuart Hordern and Winemaker Kate Sturgess were also finalists for the 2026 Halliday Winemaker of the Year.

Halliday reviewer Toni Paterson MW described them as: “A winemaking dream team, mastering every variety and region they work with. Their understanding of balance and palate harmony is outstanding, seamlessly applied to delicate, complex and robust styles.

“With a thoroughly contemporary approach, their Hunter Valley and broader Australian portfolio is exceptional, ensuring excellence across all varieties and price points.”

2026 Halliday Wine Companion award winners

Varietal Winners:

James Halliday Hall of Fame:

Major Award Winners

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