The wine industry is reeling from the loss of Matthew Jukes, who passed away on August 6. Jukes recently judged the Sydney Royal Wine Show and suffered a heart attack while on holiday with his family in Portugal.

He was just 58 and leaves behind his wife Amelia, their sons Rollo and Victor and his daughters Isadora and Elspeth.

Jukes’ career began in 1987 at the age of 19 when he joined Barnes Wine Shop in London. He went on to become one of the wine industry’s most influential writers, broadcasters, authors and judges.

He was a passionate advocate for Australian wine and was named Honorary Australian of the Year in 2010.

Just hours before his death, Jukes commented on a WBM Instagram post about ex-Chapel Hill winemaker Michael Fragos joining Haselgove in McLaren Vale.

The post simply said: “Legend.”

Following his recent role as international guest judge at the Sydney Royal Wine Show, Jukes said: “This was the finest-run, most enjoyable and most delicious show I have ever been invited to judge.

“Australian wine has never been better and on the 21st of August the results will be announced of the exemplary wines that rose to the top of this show.

“You guys are making the best Chardonnays on earth today. Australian wine has never looked better.”

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW said: “The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW is deeply saddened by the passing of Matthew Jukes, passionate supporter of the Australian wine industry and a valued friend of the Sydney Royal Wine Show.

“Matthew made an outstanding contribution to wine, both internationally and here in Australia. His generosity, expertise and genuine enthusiasm for our industry left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with him. His recent time with us at the Sydney Royal Wine Show was a reminder of the warmth, insight and energy he brought to every conversation.

“Matthew’s loss will be deeply felt across the wine community. On behalf of the RASNSW, the Sydney Royal Wine Show Committee and our wider community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Amelia, his family, friends and colleagues.

“We honour Matthew’s contribution, his friendship and his enduring passion for wine. He will be greatly missed.”

The Australian High Commission London said: “The Australian High Commission in London extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Matthew Jukes, following the sad news of his passing.

“Matthew had a great passion for Australian wine, which he championed in the United Kingdom over many years including with his annual 100 Best Australian Wines. We were privileged to learn from his expertise, experience and passion on many occasions at Australia House and Stoke Lodge.

“Matthew leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. May he rest in peace.”

The Real Review’s Stuart Knox said: “Matthew Jukes had a rare ability to make wine feel exciting, generous and alive. For those lucky enough to know him beyond the page and the glass, Matthew himself carried those same qualities.

“His passing leaves an enormous emptiness, and it is difficult to accept that such a vivid presence has gone. I

“Matthew became one of the most passionate and influential advocates for Australian wine. His enthusiasm was genuine, informed and wholehearted. He understood the ambition and character of Australian producers, and he championed them with extraordinary loyalty. He helped countless people around the world see Australian wine differently, giving recognition and encouragement to winemakers across the country.

“Farewell, Matthew. Thank you for teaching me to trust what was in the glass—and, most importantly, for teaching me to trust myself. You changed the course of my life, and I will never forget you.”

Read Knox’s full tribute here.

Penfolds said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Matthew Jukes. Matthew was one of the great voices of the wine world. A respected writer, an extraordinary communicator and, above all, a passionate lover and champion of wine. He dedicated his career to sharing the stories, people and places behind every bottle, and his unwavering support for Australian wine helped introduce and inspire countless wine lovers across the globe.

“To us, Matthew was more than an acclaimed critic and writer. He was a friend. His warmth, great sense of humour, generosity, enthusiasm and infectious curiosity made every conversation memorable and every shared glass more meaningful.

“The wine community has lost one of its finest ambassadors, and Australian wine has lost one of its most passionate advocates. Matthew connected people, he created opportunity, he made things happen.

“Our heartfelt condolences and love go to Matthew’s family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. He will be forever greatly missed and fondly remembered.”

Office of the Agent General of South Australia said: “Matthew Jukes wasn’t just a great wine writer, he’s been a great friend to all of South Australia’s wine sector for a quarter of a century. Very sad news. Our heart goes out to his young family and his wider global wine family. He will be greatly missed.”B

Barossa Australia said: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Matthew Jukes, a great friend and long-time champion of Australian wine.

“For many years, Matthew shared his enthusiasm for Barossa wines with audiences around the world, bringing an unmistakable energy, knowledge and generosity to everything he did.

“His support for Barossa and its wine community was deeply valued, and his contribution to Australian wine will be long remembered.

“Our thoughts are with Matthew’s family, friends and the many people across the wine community who knew and loved him.”