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These 8 wineries have just been named Australia’s best

Credit: Oakridge Estate

Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
The prestigious Halliday Wine Companion has uncorked its shortlist of the best wineries in Australia right now.

Spanning experimental micro-producers to lauded household names, Australia lays claim to an astounding number of excellent wineries – certainly too many to count. Thankfully, the Halliday Wine Companion has unveiled its 2027 shortlist, presenting a definitive list that shines a light on the top Australian wine producers currently leading the pack.

This year’s Halliday Tasting Team swirled, sniffed and sipped their way through a staggering 7520 wines from 1033 wineries before whittling down the field to just eight finalists in the Winery of the Year category. Alongside the other major category awards, the winner will be announced on 19 August 2026, so stay tuned.

South Australia dominated the shortlist, securing the largest number of finalists and reinforcing its status as one of the country’s premier food and wine regions – recently bolstered by the arrival of the SA Michelin Guide.

In no particular order, below are the wineries that made the 2027 Halliday Wine Companion Awards shortlist for Winery of the Year.

The best wineries in Australia right now

Koomilya, McLaren Vale, SA 

best australian wineries
Koomilya operates on an old-school shiraz vineyard.

It’s hard to compete when there are so many incredible wineries in McLaren Vale, yet Koomilya stands out with its forward-thinking approach to traditional shiraz making. Stephen and Fiona Pannell have regenerated an old shiraz vineyard with organic farming and environmental care, producing single site wines that reflect each season.  

Forest Hill Vineyard, Great Southern, WA 

Forest Hill winery
You can visit Forest Hill Vineyard for cellar door experiences.

Tucked deep in the belly of Western Australia’s Great Southern region, 45 minutes west of Albany, Forest Hill Vineyard began its viticulture journey in 1965 – fuelled by an ambitious belief in the potential of the cool-climate landscape. From its vibrant rieslings to its complex cabernet sauvignon, each wine reflects the region’s unique geological character.  

House of Arras, Tas 

house of arras tasmania
House of Arras is renowned for its quality cool-climate sparkling.

Its vineyards protected by mountain wilderness and influenced by the Great Southern Ocean, House of Arras is best known for its sparkling wines borne from Tasmania’s unique crisp climate. Winemaker Ed Carr uses a meticulous fine bottle maturation method known as tirage to create the brand’s signature elegant and creamy effervescence.  

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Sami-Odi, Barossa Valley, SA 

Winemaker Fraser McKinley
Winemaker Fraser McKinley has reframed the identity of Barossa wine.

A small-batch vineyard vying for top honours against household heavyweights, Sami-Odi is a cult indie producer that creates around 1000 cases per year. Despite the winery having no cellar door, public tastings or traditional marketing, it has a dedicated mailing list of oenophiles who patiently wait to get their hands on a bottle of its unblended shiraz. 

Oakridge, Yarra Valley, VIC 

oakridge winery
Oakridge Estate delivers remarkably consistent wines.

It’s not the first time Oakridge has been nominated as a finalist for Winery of the Year, having been recognised for its unwavering consistency of quality across its vintages. The company continues to set high standards for Yarra Valley winemaking, from benchmark chardonnay to delicate pinot noir. Drop in for curated tastings of classic and award-winning Oakridge wines or join a chardonnay masterclass. 

Tolpuddle, Tas 

tolpuddle vineyard tasmania
Tolpuddle is known for its chardonnay and pinot noir. (Credit: Adam Gibson)

Located in the Coal River Valley about 30 minutes from Hobart – one of Australia’s coolest and driest climates – Tolpuddle has been named one of Australia’s best wineries for good reason. The 31-hectare vineyard has light silica over sandstone soil that ensures well-balanced grapes with intensity of flavour, producing its must-try Tasmanian chardonnay and pinot noir.  

Yeringberg, Yarra Valley, VIC 

yeringberg
Walk among prized vineyards at Yeringberg.

Established in 1863, Yeringberg is a fourth-generation family winery and farm carrying forward the de Pury legacy of traditional, unhurried winemaking. The vineyard’s wines boast remarkable longevity, with reds that can age for at least 21 years. Pre-booking is essential for visits.

Bekkers, McLaren Vale, SA

best wineries australia
Bekkers sits among the Halliday finalists for Winery of the Year.

This hyper-boutique, family-owned winery in South Australia’s McLaren Vale produces wines in tiny quantities, paying great attention to finesse and fine texture. Pop into Bekker’s tasting room for sweeping vineyard views and top drops in fine glassware. 

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Best Value Winery shortlist

  • Evans & Tate, Margaret River, WA
  • Medhurst, Yarra Valley, VIC
  • Ministry of Clouds, McLaren Vale, SA
  • MMAD, McLaren Vale, SA
  • Thomas Wines, Hunter Valley, NSW
  • Wirra Wirra Vineyards, McLaren Vale, SA

Best New Winery shortlist

  • Decades, Tas
  • Fervor, Great Southern, WA
  • Foreign Friends, Beechworth, VIC
  • L’Anima, McLaren Vale, SA
  • S. Caica, McLaren Vale, SA
  • Thunderstone, Porongurup, WA

How to vote

Wine lovers can cast their vote for the 2027 People’s Choice Award on the Halliday Wine Companion website. Nominations are based on criteria including standout cellar door experiences, outstanding restaurant offerings, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and overall quality of wines. Submissions are open until Friday, July 31, 2026. The 2027 People’s Choice Award winner, alongside the major awards, will be announced at the Halliday Wine Companion awards ceremony

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Eleanor Edström
Eleanor Edström is Australian Traveller’s Associate Editor. Previously a staff writer at Signature Luxury Travel & Style and Vacations & Travel magazines, she's a curious wordsmith with a penchant for conservation, adventure, the arts and design. She discovered her knack for storytelling much earlier, however – penning mermaid sagas in glitter ink at age seven. Proof that her spelling has since improved, she holds an honours degree in English and philosophy, and a French diploma from the University of Sydney. Off duty, you’ll find her pirouetting between Pilates and ballet classes, or testing her friends’ patience with increasingly obscure vocabulary.
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7 things you must experience on a getaway to Echuca Moama

    Australian Traveller Australian Traveller
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    Those dreaming of a river escape that’s less rush and more rest will discover the perfect getaway in Echuca Moama.

    Best known for summer river holidays, Echuca Moama dishes up extraordinary options for those craving good food, experiences and culture. Discover how best to spend your getaway in this gorgeous river town.

    1. Find unique stays in Echuca Moama

    Goolwa River Retreat villas
    Bathe under the stars at Goolwa River Retreat.

    An adventure here starts with the perfect place to stay. Echuca Moama is famous for its luxury houseboats. Be spoilt for choice with amenities like spas, chef’s kitchens and en-suites onboard Murray River Houseboats and Echuca Luxury Houseboats.

    For those who prefer to stay on dry land to sleep, there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. The villas at Goolwa River Retreat offer spectacular views of the Murray Riverfront, cosy evenings by the fire pit. And, a truly unique and luxurious experience: bathing under the stars in an outdoor bathtub.

    Families travelling with young kids will appreciate the fully self-contained cabins, which sleep up to six, at NRMA Echuca Holiday Park. Complete with BBQ facilities and a kids’ playground, Echuca Holiday Park is the perfect base for families exploring the Echuca Moama region.

    More adventurous guests can experience off-grid serenity at Carriages Water Front Retreat, where they can slumber among the redgums in a lovingly converted vintage train carriage.

    If you prefer a more central place to stay, the Mercure Port of Echuca is located just five minutes from the Port of Echuca on foot and offers comfortable rooms, as well as easy access to all the region has to offer.

    2. Explore the Murray River

    PaddlesteamerS on the Murray River
    Jump aboard one of Echuca Moama’s famous paddlesteamers.

    A trip to Echuca Moama isn’t complete without seeing the Murray River. Take in views from the water, with Murray River Paddlesteamers and Echuca Paddlesteamers. Or combine sightseeing with lunch at a local winery or brewery on a Wharf to Winery or Port to Plate cruise.

    Those who prefer an active holiday can hire a stand-up paddleboard with Echuca SUP to explore the river. Duck under the historic Echuca Moama Bridge and listen out for local wildlife. At the end of your paddleboarding trip, you’ll find a shuttle service to return you to the car park.

    Kayaking is another great option if you like to combine seeing the sights with a full-body workout. Hire a kayak from River Country Adventours, or join a river safari for a guided experience.

    3. Go hiking and biking in Echuca Moama

    two bikers riding on the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail
    Peddle along the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail.

    On foot or by bike, there are plenty of trails to explore the region. Embark on a guided e-bike tour with Green Pedal (or hire an e-bike and go it alone) to explore the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail. Traverse through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Bakeries and picnic areas in the historic town of Rushworth provide the perfect place for refreshments.

    Day trip to the lookout at Whroo Forest, near the now-abandoned Whroo township, located on historic Balaclava Hill. The Hill was once the site of Victoria’s largest open-cut gold mine and home to a thriving town. Today, the area offers picturesque walking tracks and picnic sites.

    4. Taste Echuca Moama’s best dining options

    lobster dish on the table at opa in echuca moama
    Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Whether you like a candlelit dinner or a coffee in the sunshine, Echuca Moama is ready to delight your taste buds.

    Pop into Opa for authentic Greek fare with views of the town from its upstairs balcony. Enjoy seasonal produce at The Mill, offering everything from global street food and share plates to classic dinner and dessert options inside a historic building.

    Discover a local secret at Monkee and Co, a relaxed Asian-fusion restaurant serving up classics like Banh Mi and dumplings.

    Start the day with excellent coffee and waterfront views at the family-run Watson St Pavilion.

    5. Drink at Echuca Moama’s best bars

    two people drinking cockatails at paradise bar in echuca moama
    Cheers to neon at Paradise Bar.

    Top-notch tipples can be found at Paradise Bar, a new cocktail bar serving up handcrafted cocktails to delight the taste buds in the heart of Echuca. The menu features classics like mojitos, margs, and spritzers. As well as Paradise’s own creations featuring funky ingredients like bubble gum syrup and an Old Fashioned with truffle oil.

    Bar Lee at the Echuca Distillery is the place to go to watch the sun go down at the rooftop bar, taste Echuca’s locally made spirits and nibble your way through an exceptional selection of share plates.

    For river views, excellent service and a more than extensive wine menu, head to Social Wine Bar. You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere in the riverfront beer garden that sprawls out under an ancient pine tree and a cosy interior perfect for hiding away on a cool evening.

    6. Follow local art trails

    Silo Art Trail
    Jump in the car and follow the Silo Art Trail.

    The region’s silos have been transformed into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad. Follow the Silo Art Trail by car, which takes between three and four hours.

    Rochester Mural Park is home to an annual lineup of changing murals, while the Rochester Mural Festival showcases established and emerging artists.

    7. Dive into local history

    Echuca Port Museum and Penny Tourism
    See the historic Port of Echuca.

    The Echuca Moama region is bursting with history. Among its historical treasures is the Port of Echuca. Interactive displays showcase the port’s importance to historical trade along the river, industrial sites like the Evans Brothers Sawmill and the Port of Echuca railway station with its very own heritage steam train.

    The displays pay homage to the site’s significance to the local Yorta Yorta People and their ancestral connection to the land where the Murray, Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers meet.

    Explore the port independently or join a guided tour to learn from Echuca’s history buffs.

    Learn more and start planning the perfect holiday to Echuca Moama at visitechucamoama.com.au.