THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

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.

Grab your jackets, pack your bags and escape to the Hunter Valley these July school holidays with the whole family. The region is bursting with family-friendly events and activities, here are a few ideas to keep the whole family entertained this winter. 

More than 330 guests from across the wine and tourism industries gathered to recognise the people and businesses shaping the future of the Hunter Valley region while honouring those whose contributions have left a lasting legacy. The 19th Hunter Valley Legends Awards highlighted the Hunter Valley industry’s continued focus on sustainability, premium visitor experiences and preserving the region’s winemaking legacy for future generations.

The Hunter Valley’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading wine regions has been further reinforced, with five major category nominations in the 2027 Halliday Wine Companion Awards shortlist.

Vintage is one of the best times to visit the Hunter Valley. The grapes are bursting with colour and flavour, the vines are looking lush and green, and the community is in full swing with everyone pitching in to harvest the grapes at the right times – whites are picked first, followed by reds. Want to get in on the action and experience the 2026 vintage first-hand by picking and stomping grapes?

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.