THE GRAPEVINE BLOG
Hunter Valley Celebrates National Recognition in The Real Review Top Wineries 2026
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.
“To be recognised as this year’s Rising Star is incredibly humbling. This is not a solo effort - I have been so well supported by the industry, the Hunter Valley region, our talented team at Mercer, and my wife Alison. This is as much for them as it is a recognition for me and the work we do at Mercer Wines,” Mercer said.
Aaron’s recognition comes alongside another outstanding result for the Hunter Valley wine region, with 29 Hunter Valley wineries named in The Real Review Top Wineries of Australia 2026 list among just 429 producers nationwide, making up 9% of the national top 100.
The strong representation highlights the depth of quality across the Hunter Valley and reinforces the region’s standing as one of Australia’s leading wine destinations. From long-established icons to emerging producers gaining national attention, the results reflect the consistency, craftsmanship and innovation continuing to shape Hunter Valley wine.
The following Hunter Valley wineries were recognised in The Real Review Top Wineries of Australia 2026:
5. Tyrrell’s
17. Brokenwood
26. Lake’s Folly
32. Mount Pleasant
82. Thomas Wines
96. Silkman Wines
138. Margan Family Wines
159. Vinden Wines
187. Meerea Park
189. Briar Ridge
198. Hungerford Hill
204. Gundog Estate
210. Mercer Wines
232. Glandore Wines
236. Sweetwater Wines
251. Carillion Wines
252. Pepper Tree Wines
261. De Iuliis
278. Bimbadgen Estate
305. Riggs & Wiggs
316. Tamburlaine Organic Wines
365. Krinklewood
403. McLeish Estate
423. Chateau Pato
426. Winmark Wines