THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

Sixteen Hunter Valley producers were celebrated with trophies at the 2026 PKF Hunter Valley Wine Show celebration luncheon at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort. 

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.

The 2026 Hunter Valley Vintage opened at Mount Pleasant, where 80 local wine industry members joined Wonnarua Elder, Warren Taggart for a Smoking Ceremony - deeply rooted in 60,000 years of indigenous culture. As the first wine region in Australia to adopt the practice, sacred ancient symbols were used to bless the vintage with smouldering eucalyptus leaves for spiritual cleansing, energy and prosperity.

When most people think of Shiraz, they picture big, bold, brooding red wines. But in the Hunter Valley Shiraz is getting noticed as people veer away from big bold and high in alcohol wine styles. Some say Hunter Shiraz is Shiraz for Pinot Noir drinkers – it’s bright, fresh, fruit forward, versatile and full of character. It’s a fabulous balance between tradition and excitement as winemakers across the Hunter are crafting exciting new styles and blends that are catching the attention of sommeliers, wine lovers, and experimental drinkers alike.

16 Hunter Valley Producers Celebrated with Top AwardsThe 2025 PKF Hunter Valley Wine Show was judged at the Lone Pine Barracks at the Singleton Army Base from Monday 11th to Wednesday 13th August, with the trophy winners’ luncheon celebrated today at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, with Johanna Griggs AM as Master of Ceremonies.

The Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region and is synonymous with distinctive, medium-bodied Shiraz that speaks of place, precision and poise. And an uncanny ability to age.