Are you on the lookout for Australia’s top wineries? When it comes to Australian wine reviews, the first name that pops into most wine lovers’ minds is the Halliday Wine Companion. Announced annually, the Top 100 Wineries celebrate the best of Australian wine. Not only do the wines have to be good, but they also have to be consistently good, have great character and the kind of winemaking savvy that shines through in every bottle. Marcus Ellis from Halliday’s tasting team said it best: “These are wineries that excel in tough years and soar in great ones.”
There are great showings from Yarra Valley to Margaret River, but it was Tyrrell’s Wines that was awarded the top spot this year.
If you’re planning a wine-tasting trip this summer, make sure you add these wineries to your itinerary…
Winner winner: Tyrrell’s Wines, Hunter Valley (NSW)
Taking out the number one spot for 2024 is iconic Hunter Valley winery, Tyrrell’s Wines — showcasing the enduring strength of one of Australia’s most iconic wine regions.
A familiar name to wine aficionados, Tyrrell’s Wines takes the top spot thanks to its diverse and impressive portfolio, which ranges from everyday and budget-friendly vino to some of Australia’s most esteemed single-site wines. This latest accolade is a testament to their commitment to quality year after year.
Located in Polkobin, Tyrrell’s cellar door is a popular stop on most wine tours of the region. If you are visiting with a group (with a designated driver) there are even EV-charging points at the cellar door.
Second: Giant Steps, Yarra Valley (VIC)
Yarra Valley’s Giant Steps is known for its impeccable pinot noirs and chardonnays. It took home the Winery of the Year title at the recent Halliday Awards and was recognised with the 2025 Pinot Noir of the Year award for its 2023 Applejack.
The winery’s name pays homage to Coltrane and reflects its ambitious quality leaps under Phil Sexton and Steve Flamsteed plus the appointment of winemaker Mel Chester and its acquisition of its new Bastard Hill Vineyard. As they continue to release stunning wines, the future looks bright for this modern classic.
Stop it at its tasting room in Healesville, about an hour from Melbourne city, which is open seven days a week for tastings.
Third: Giaconda, Beechworth (VIC)
Rounding out the top three is Beechworth’s Giaconda, making its top ten debut on the list. The Victorian winery is renowned for its exceptional chardonnays, but that’s not all it does. Led by Rick Kinzbrunner, Giaconda is a beacon of individuality and quality in the region. It continually refines its pinot noir, shiraz, and newly planted varieties – such as roussane and nebbiolo.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to taste these on the vineyard, as it has no tasting room or cellar door. But, if you’re in the area, head on to the Cellar Door Wine Store in Beechworth to try a tipple or two.
Fourth: Yangarra Estate Vineyard, McLaren Vale (SA)
McLaren Vale is often considered Australia’s answer to Rhône. It is renowned for its reds, such as shiraz and grenache. Yangarra Estate speaks to that reputation thanks to its healthy supply of old grenache vines.
Winemaker Pete Fraser and viticulturist Michael Lane have cultivated a remarkable partnership over 26 years. The estate consistently produces exceptional Rhône reds, along with world-class whites that push the boundaries of this progressive region. Its cellar door is open seven days a week. Pull up a chair in the cosy tasting room with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing for uninterrupted views out to the vines.
Fifth: Mount Mary, Yarra Valley (VIC)
As a cornerstone of the Yarra Valley, Mount Mary thrives under Sam Middleton’s stewardship, honouring his grandfather’s legacy. The estate’s classic offerings — chardonnay, pinot noir, and Bordeaux blends — showcase elegance and longevity. Something the cool-climate region is renowned for.
There’s no tasting room for this winery, but its vino will show up on many wine lists in the region.
Sixth: Oakridge Wines, Yarra Valley (VIC)
Oakridge, under Dave Bicknell’s guidance, has become a contemporary titan of the Yarra Valley. Known for shaking up Australian chardonnay, the estate excels across various styles, including sparkling and cabernet. The 2022 864 Funder & Diamond was named the 2025 Halliday Wine Companion Wine of the Year. Plus, the winery has amassed an impressive collection of gold medals, solidifying its position in the industry.
Its impressive cellar door is hard to miss as you’re travelling through the wine region. Stop in for a tasting to sample the iconic wines for yourself – there’s a restaurant if you’re feeling peckish.
Seventh: Cullen Wines, Margaret River (WA)
We’re heading out west to Margaret River for this winery. Cullen Wines is a revolutionary winery, one of the only carbon-negative wineries in the world (that’s beyond carbon neutral). Founded with a vision for sustainability, Vanya Cullen transitioned to organic farming in 1998 and became biodynamic in 2004. The estate’s flagship wines, like the Diana Madeline cabernet, showcase its commitment to producing wines that reflect their unique terroir. The wines have earned Cullen a prominent place in the Australian wine scene – for both quality of wine and sustainability.
Visit its wine room for a tasting next to the vines, or stay for a mindful meal with paired vino.
Eighth: Grosset, Clare Valley (SA)
Geoffrey Grosset is synonymous with riesling, crafting exceptional wines that set the standard. His meticulous approach includes biodynamic practices and careful site selection, resulting in spellbinding rieslings that are better than ever. While riesling may dominate his reputation, Grosset also produces outstanding cabernet, shiraz, and more, making it a name to remember.
Its cellar door is housed in a stunning stone building once home to the old dairy’s butter churn. If you love a riesling and are in Clare Valley, make a beeline for the tasting room.
Ninth: Yarra Yering, Yarra Valley (VIC)
Since Sarah Crowe took the helm in 2013, Yarra Yering has experienced a remarkable renaissance. Once at risk of fading after its founder’s passing, the estate has regained its prominence under Crowe’s skilful leadership. Her wines pay homage to Dr. Bailey Carrodus’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of excellence.
Its tasting room is actually located in the former abode of the owner tucked in amongst the vines. An iconic location for sampling iconic wines from Yarra Valley.
Tenth: Mount Pleasant, Hunter Valley (NSW)
With a storied history and a roster of esteemed winemakers, Mount Pleasant is producing some of its best wines to date. Winemaker Adrian Sparks has streamlined operations, focusing on quality by eliminating lower-yielding vines and concentrating on premier vineyard sites. The result is a collection of sublime wines that beautifully express their heritage and place.
Stepping into its cellar door is more like stepping into a friend’s home – albeit a friend with a fantastic wine collection.
You can find the full list of wineries, including other Australian wine pioneers Henschke, Penfolds, Pooley and De Bortoli, here.
For those eager to taste the best Australian wine without travelling to the cellar doors, Sense of Taste has made the Top 100 Wineries’ wines available online and in-store. Together with Halliday, it is hosting tasting events featuring the wines and some of the winemakers. The events are happening on October 31 at Panama Dining Room in Melbourne and November 6 at Doltone House in Sydney.