Wine lovers, rejoice! Dan Murphy’s unveiled the winners of its inaugural Best in Glass Wine Awards at an exclusive ceremony in Melbourne.
This groundbreaking event celebrated Australia’s best, most affordable, and internationally acclaimed wines, offering a curated selection that proves great wine doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
From the 46 category winners, many of the wines were priced under $15, making premium wine experiences more accessible than ever. Among the most affordable winners were the Fifth Leg Semillon Sauvignon Blanc ($13.29) and Shingleback Red Knot Shiraz ($12.99), both honored as Best Value picks.
A Taste of Excellence
These awards are the result of a rigorous judging process that saw Dan Murphy’s expert Wine Merchants taste over 700 wines, eventually shortlisting and re-tasting finalists to crown winners across a variety of categories. Departing from traditional medal-heavy wine competitions, the Best in Glass Awards focus on simplicity, naming just three winners in each category: Best, Best Value, and Best International. This streamlined approach makes it easy for everyday wine enthusiasts to confidently select the perfect bottle.
“Choosing a wine can be intimidating,” shared Andrew Shedden, General Manager of Premium and Luxury. “The Best in Glass Wine Awards are about cutting through the noise. Our most wine-obsessed Merchants have uncovered Aussie favorites and international gems for every drinking occasion, from steak night to date night.”
Top-Performing Regions and Countries
South Australia emerged as the star of the evening, with 13 wins making up 26.09% of the winners. Beloved regions like Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley shone on the list.
Victoria followed closely with 8 awards (just over 17% of winners), championing cool-climate styles with standout entries from the Yarra Valley and King Valley. Western Australia also held its own, with 4 winners from Margaret River, tying this region with Barossa Valley and Yarra Valley as the top-performing locations. Tasmania’s sparkling wines also claimed center stage, with celebrated brands like Janz, Devil’s Corner, and Clover Hill earning top accolades.
On the international front, France reigned supreme, claiming 9 of the 12 ‘Best International’ awards (an impressive 75%). Regions such as Côtes-du-Rhône and Champagne solidified France’s status as a global leader in winemaking. New Zealand’s Marlborough region also made its mark, showcasing its renowned Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
Winners for Every Palate
The list’s diversity ensures there’s a winning wine for everyone, from rich Shiraz and fresh Sauvignon Blanc to vibrant Rosé and tantalizing Sparkling options. Judges also applauded the value and complexity offered by traditional reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as the cool-climate finesse of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Celebrate the Winning Wines
Wine enthusiasts can soon join in the celebrations with a series of tasting events hosted by Dan Murphy’s across the country. On Saturday, 17 May, select Dan Murphy’s stores, including locations in Malvern East, Marion, and Leichhardt, will hold exclusive ticketed tasting events. Guests will enjoy guided recommendations from expert Wine Merchants, with tickets priced at $20, redeemable on purchases made during the event. Each ticket comes with a $20 Dan’s Gift Card, making it both an informative and rewarding experience.
For those unable to attend, select Dan Murphy’s stores will feature tastings from the winning selection on the National Tasting Table every Friday and Saturday from 1 May to 28 May. Participants will even have the chance to win a $500 Dan Murphy’s Gift Card.
A New Benchmark for Wine
Dan Murphy’s inaugural Best in Glass Wine Awards has set a new standard for simplicity and excellence in wine recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just someone looking to impress at your next dinner party, this list has something for every palate and budget.
Head to your local Dan Murphy’s or visit danmurphys.com.au to explore the full list of winners and discover your next favorite bottle. Cheers to great taste and unforgettable drinking experiences!