The Real Review has named Hunter Valley winemaker Aaron Mercer of Mercer Wines ‘Rising Star of the Year’ in the 2026 Top Wineries of Australia rankings. The Rising Star of the Year award recognises an outstanding emerging wine professional yet to receive wide recognition for their winemaking success.
MEDIA RELEASEThe 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.
Fire up the Autumn and Winter season with a range of great events in the Hunter Valley. From big weekends out to more intimate experiences, there’s something happening almost every week in the Hunter Valley. Here's what coming up in the Hunter Valley.
Sommeliers from leading Sydney restaurants and hospitality groups descended on the Hunter Valley for a hands-on, immersive two-day “Backstage” vintage experience. Kicking off with a masterclass hosted by industry legends Andrew Thomas, Andrew Spinaze and Iain Riggs, flagship Semillon vineyards including Thomas Braemore Vineyard, Mount Pleasant Lovedale Vineyard, Tyrrell's Vat 1 Vineyard, Brokenwood ILR Vineyard and Audrey Wilkinson Ridge Vineyard were showcased. The pure, fresh vibrancy of the 2025 wines were contrasted with a retrospective look at the golden 2006 vintage. “These wines are classics for the ages that will still be revered in 10–20 years,” said Thomas.
Innovation in the Hunter Valley has long been defined by its ability to balance tradition with progressive thinking. Latitude 32 Wines newly launched Wonnarua Range, is a deeply considered collaboration between contemporary winemaking and the world’s oldest continuous culture.
