The 10 best wines of the year, as selected by our expert judges from over 1,200 bottles.
Let’s set the record straight — you don’t have to be an expert to love wine. Just because you don’t know all of the fancy terminology or the right pronunciation doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a top-notch drop. And that’s exactly where the Decoded Wine Awards comes in – an awards show judged by experts but designed with everyday wine lovers in mind. That means less confusing jargon and more good times.
After tasting over 1,200 bottles our expert panel of judges sorted the very best Australian and New Zealand wines into 10 straightforward categories by style and price. No matter what style you like, or whether you’re shopping for a midweek tipple or a special occasion, we’ve got a winner for you. Below, we take a look at the top 10 delicious drops that took home the gold at this year's awards while offering up a few (simplified) tasting notes and a perfect food pairing idea.
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1. Lighter White Under $20: Grove Mill Sauvignon Blanc
This category is all about finding the best people-pleasing, easy-drinking wines. And that’s exactly why Grove Mill took out the top spot for their punchy Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that suits every occasion. We’ve never met a white wine-lover who didn’t enjoy a glass.
Tastes like: Vibrant tropical fruits.
Pair it with: Bright summer salads.
2. Fuller White Under $20: Credaro Five Tales Chardonnay
Chardonnay is the most popular white wine varietal in Australia, which makes this category one of the most competitive of them all. In the end, Credaro took home the medal for their super versatile Five Tales Chardonnay, which is also fantastic value.
Tastes like: Melon and citrus.
Pair it with: Salmon fish cakes
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3. Lighter Red Under $20: Z Wine Rustica Grenache
With an explosion of bright, vibrant, and super juicy fruit flavours, it’s no wonder crowd-favourite, Z Wine Rustica Grenache was a runaway success in this category. It’s a lively and layered wine, which means with every sip you’ll discover something new about it.
Tastes like: Summer berries.
Pair it with: Peking duck.
4. Fuller Red Under $20: Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz
This cabernet shiraz is like buying a Rolls Royce for the price of a Toyota Camry. It’s under $20 but drinks like a bottle three times the price. With just the right amount of oak, it’s a well-balanced and full-bodied red that’s great for dinner parties.
Tastes like: Mulberry and blackcurrant.
Pair it with: Roast lamb.
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5. Rosé: Marchand & Burch Villages Rosé
The Aussies have taken on the French at their own game with this wine, crafting a perfectly dry style of rosé that rivals the famous Provence region. Make the most of a glass of Marchand & Burch Villages Rosé by sipping on it during a picnic on a warm afternoon.
Tastes like: Peaches and cream.
Pair it with: Charcuterie board.
6. Sparkling: Petaluma Croser Vintage
There’s only one way to celebrate winning best sparkling – by popping a bottle, of course. And Petaluma’s Croser Vintage is the kind of bottle you’ll want to pop again and again. It’s a top-notch premium style sparkling from the Adelaide Hills that’ll have everyone toasting its elegant style.
Tastes like: Melon and citrus.
Pair it with: Oysters.
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7. Lighter White Over $20: Pikes Traditionale Riesling
How do you know a Pikes fan when you meet one? Easy, they tell you. And that’s because everyone who tries this standout riesling raves about it to anyone who’ll listen. They’re not wrong though, it consistently delivers exceptional value and is one of the most food-friendly wines on the market.
Tastes like: Citrus.
Pair it with: Thai curry.
8. Fuller White Over $20: Oakridge Local Vineyard Series Hazeldene Chardonnay
Oakridge’s Hazeldene Chardonnay has a habit of collecting awards, so this Decoded gong should come as no surprise. As a benchmark example of modern Australian chardonnay, it doesn’t get much better than this beautifully intense and versatile wine.
Tastes like: White nectarine and lemon.
Pair it with: Roast chicken.
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9. Lighter Red Over $20: Onannon Pinot Noir
If you like Mornington Peninsula pinot noir, this has your name on it. A prime example of why we love the region so much, this wine will seduce you with its perfumed aromas, then lure you in with its balanced mix of red fruit, oak and spice. Good luck finding a light red more reliable than this.
Tastes like: Cherry and spices.
Pair it with: Baked brie.
10. Fuller Red Over $20: St Hugo Cabernet Sauvignon
When it comes to full-bodied reds it doesn't get any better than St Hugo Cabernet Sauvignon. Just the aroma in the glass is enough to get your taste buds going. It’s a mellow and versatile red wine that’s sure to be a hit with connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Tastes like: Blackcurrant and cocoa.
Pair it with: Rib eye steak.
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