MEDIA RELEASE
The Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association is pleased to announce the nominees and finalists for the 2026 Hunter Valley Legends Awards, recognising excellence across wine, tourism, and hospitality. These awards celebrate the individuals and businesses who continue to elevate the Hunter Valley’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading wine and tourism destinations. This year’s nominees and finalists reflect the depth of talent, innovation, and commitment that underpins the region’s ongoing success.
Winemaker of the Year
Proudly sponsored by First Creek Winemaking Services
This award recognises a Hunter Valley winemaker who has achieved success on the show circuit and has made major commitments to the promotion of not only their own wines but the wider Hunter Valley and its wines.
Finalists:
- Bryan Currie (Hungerford Hill)
- Stuart Hordern (Brokenwood Wines)
- Brendan Kaczorowski (Keith Tulloch Wine)
- Aaron Mercer (Mercer Wines)
- Mark Richardson (Tyrrell’s)
- Brett Woodward (Saddler’s Creek Wines)
Sponsor acknowledgement:
First Creek Winemaking Services is a respected family owned Hunter Valley winery known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their support of this award reflects a strong dedication to recognising and advancing excellence in winemaking across the region.
Viticulturist of the Year
Proudly sponsored by Jurds
This prestigious accolade recognises an outstanding viticulturist involved in regional vineyard management and their contribution to the regions innovative and evolving viticulture practices.
Finalists:
- Will Capper (Hunter Valley Vineyard Management)
- Brent Hutton (Tyrrell's)
- Jeremy O’Brien (Davis Family Wines)
- Edward ‘Ted’ Nicolai (McLeish Estate)
- Jerome Scarborough & Liz Riley (Scarborough Wine Co.)
Sponsor acknowledgement:
Jurds Real Estate has long been a supporter of the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industry, supporting both industry and community.
Young Achiever of the Year
Proudly sponsored by RIEDEL
The Young Achiever of the Year award celebrates emerging talents in both the Wine and Tourism sectors, highlighting their impactful contributions and vibrant personalities as up and coming talent in the region.
Finalists:
- Sam Boyd (Bimbadgen Estate)
- Alexandra McKeown (Bonvilla Estate)
- Ollie Margan (Margan Wines)
- Samuel Rumpit (Saddler's Creek Wines)
- Hayden Tinkler (Brokenwood Wines)
- Dan Thomas (Thomas Wines)
- Allanna Wells (De Iuliis Wines/Thea Wines)
Sponsor acknowledgement:
RIEDEL is globally recognised for its precision-crafted glassware, enhancing the wine experience for both industry and consumers. Their support of this category reflects a commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent within the wine community.
Cellar Door of the Year
Proudly sponsored by Wine Selectors
This award acknowledges excellence in visitor experience, customer service, and brand storytelling at the cellar door.
Nominees:
- Bimbadgen Estate
- Bonvilla Estate
- Brokenwood Wines
- De Iuliis Wines
- First Creek Wines
- Hollydene Estate Wines
- Hungerford Hill
- John Wallace Wines
- Keith Tulloch Wine
- Krinklewood Estate
- Latitude 32 Wines
- Margan Family Wines
- McCaffrey’s Estate
- Oakvale Wines
- Peterson House
- Saddler’s Creek Wines
- Scarborough Wine Co
- Thomas Wines
- Tyrrell’s Wines
- Winmark Wines
Sponsor acknowledgement:
Wine Selectors has a longstanding connection with the Hunter Valley, championing regional wines to a national audience. Their sponsorship reinforces the importance of the cellar door experience in building lasting connections with consumers.
Tourism Operator of the Year
Proudly sponsored by PKF
Recognising businesses delivering exceptional tourism experiences that contribute to the Hunter Valley’s appeal as a destination.
Nominees:
- Beyond Ballooning
- Brendo’s Tours
- Esca Restaurant by Bimbadgen
- Mezze Hunter Valley
- Nineteen Hunter Valley
- Wine Fairy Events
Sponsor acknowledgement:
PKF is a trusted advisory and accounting firm with strong ties to regional business communities. Their support reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and recognising excellence across the Hunter Valley industry.
Accommodation Operator of the Year
Celebrating operators delivering high-quality stays that enhance the overall visitor experience in the Hunter Valley.
Nominees:
- Château Élan at The Vintage
- Dimensions X Farmstay at Krinklewood Estate
- Peppers Hunter Valley
- Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
- The Lane Retreat
Sponsor acknowledgement:
The Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association is proud to support this category, recognising the essential role accommodation providers play in shaping the overall visitor experience. From boutique retreats to large-scale resorts, these operators are integral to how guests connect with and experience the region.
The Hunter Valley Legends Awards provide an important opportunity to acknowledge the individuals and businesses whose passion and professionalism continue to shape the region’s success. Congratulations to all nominees and finalists on this well-deserved recognition. Winners will be announced at the 2026 Hunter Valley Legends Awards ceremony. The Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association also extends its sincere thanks to all award sponsors for their ongoing support in celebrating excellence across the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industry.