Full Results from the 2025 Halliday Wine Companion Awards

The 2025 Halliday Wine Companion Awards have once again shone a spotlight on the brilliance and dedication within Australia’s winemaking community. Held at Ormond Hall in Melbourne, the event celebrated the year’s most outstanding producers, winemakers, and wines, revealing the hard work and passion that drives the industry forward.

Leading the pack, Giant Steps from the Yarra Valley was named Winery of the Year. Under the innovative leadership of Melanie Chester, this winery has continued to push boundaries, setting new standards in quality and craftsmanship. Their 2023 Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir was also honoured as Pinot Noir of the Year, a recognition that speaks to the precision and care that defines Giant Steps' approach to winemaking.

In the Hunter Valley, Liz Silkman’s work at First Creek Wines and Silkman Wines earned her the title of Winemaker of the Year. Liz's approach, which marries technical skill with a deep understanding of the land, has led to the creation of wines that resonate with character and finesse. Meanwhile, Bart Molony of Vasse Felix in Margaret River was named Viticulturist of the Year, highlighting the essential role of the vineyard in crafting exceptional wines.

The Wine of the Year accolade went to Oakridge 864 Drive Block Funder & Diamond Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 from the Yarra Valley, a wine that encapsulates the elegance and depth for which the region is renowned. Scoring 98 points, this Chardonnay exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail that Oakridge brings to every bottle.

Sami-Odi from the Barossa Valley was recognized as Best New Winery, marking their arrival as an exciting force in the Australian wine landscape. Mulline from Geelong took home the Best Value Winery award, showing that great wine doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. ChaLou Wines from Orange, NSW, was celebrated as the Dark Horse Winery of the Year, reflecting their rapid rise to prominence with wines that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

Sue Hodder of Wynns Coonawarra Estate was inducted into the James Halliday Hall of Fame, a well-deserved recognition for her years of dedicated work at one of Australia’s most iconic wineries.

The varietal winners this year further showcase the diversity and strength of Australian wine, with standout performances from regions like the Yarra Valley, McLaren Vale, and Tasmania. Yarra Yering’s Dry Red Wine No. 2 2022, scoring 99 points, took the titles of Shiraz of the Year and Red Wine of the Year, exemplifying the power and elegance that Australian Shiraz can achieve.

With over 7,500 wines reviewed for the 2025 edition, the Halliday Wine Companion continues to be the go-to guide for wine lovers seeking the best of what Australia has to offer. This year’s awards celebrate not just the winners, but the vibrant and dynamic industry that they represent.