Creating a home wine cellar is a connoisseur’s dream, a personal sanctuary where carefully selected bottles mature gracefully, awaiting the perfect moment to be uncorked (or unscrewed) and enjoyed. It’s not just about storing wines for convenience sake; it’s a deliberate cultivation of taste and an investment in the art of aging. A well-curated home wine cellar reflects the owner’s passion for the complexities of wine, showcasing a collection that tells a story of exploration, discovery, and an appreciation for the nuances of different vintages.
For those who take pleasure in the world of fine wines, Australian wineries have emerged as some of the most prominent contributors to the global oenological landscape. With their unique terroirs and innovative winemaking techniques, top Australian wineries produce wines that not only capture the essence of the land but also possess the potential for exceptional aging. We’ve curated a collection of top drops from great Australian wineries, – some well known, some hidden gems, each worth of the astute wine collector’s attention.
1. VASSE FELIX – Margaret River
Established in 1967 by Dr Tom Cullity, Vasse Felix stands as a pioneering wine estate of Margaret River. Benefiting from the environment and climate of one of the world’s best wine regions, Vasse Felix has remained committed to showcasing the exceptional qualities of the Margaret River region throughout its 56 year history. See more
2. SWEETWATER – Hunter Valley
Originally known as Sweetwater Station, the Sweetwater estate had its first vineyards planted way back in the mid1800s. A replanting effort took place in 1998, resulting in the establishment of outstanding semillon, shiraz, and cabernet sauvignon vineyards. Under current owner Sam Arnaout who took over the estate in 2016, award-winning winemaker Bryan Currie has repeatedly demonstrated his expertise, consistently yielding triumphs at both national and international wine shows. With unwavering dedication, Currie’s team tirelessly works to spotlight the distinctive terroir and heritage vines of the Hunter Valley. See more
3. D’ARENBERG – McLaren Vale
Managing Director Francis d’Arenberg Osborn (known by all as d’Arry) is a third generation winemaker. Recently turning 95, d’Arry has completed 72 consecutive vintages having started making wine at the age of 16! d’Arry took over from his father in 1957 and soon after created the d’Arenberg brand with the famous red stripe. d’Arry’s wines instantly made an impact on the Australian wine scene. In 1984 d’Arry handed over the winemaking reigns to his son, Chester and it was Chester who came up with the idea to build the d’Arenberg Cube, inspired by the complexities and puzzles of wine-making. See more
4. MCHENRY HOHEN – Margaret River
Renowned for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines, this boutique winery was founded by two well known Margaret River families, the McHenrys and the Hohnens. Their shared love for the land and the art of winemaking has resulted in a portfolio of exquisite vintages. Here, the fusion of old-world techniques and innovative practices culminates in wines that are a harmonious symphony of flavors, leaving a lasting impression on the most discerning palates. See more
5. CAPE MENTELLE – Margaret River
As one of the five founding wineries in the Margaret River region, Cape Mentelle has played a pioneering role in shaping the area’s renowned wine styles and since its establishment in 1970, the winery has gained global recognition for its exceptional and award-winning wines. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding environment, the Cape Mentelle philosophy is centred on capturing a unique sense of place in every bottle, characteristics defined by their pristine coastal location, unique soils and 50 year history. See more
6. WINMARK – Hunter Valley
Winmark, Danish for “Field of Wines” celebrates the remarkable revival of the historical Poole’s Rock Vineyard and restoration of 28 acres of prime Hunter Valley vineyards, under the watchful eye of Danish vigneron Karin Adcock. For half a century, the vineyard has grown exceptional fruit, with a proud history of producing highly acclaimed Chardonnay. In acknowledgement of this, Winmark Wines has devoted the entire estate to Chardonnay. See more
7. PURPLE SOUL – Adelaide Hills
Founded in 2018 by a team of three experienced winemakers, Purple Soul is a testament to the magic that unfolds when passion and expertise converge. Perceiving their craft as an art form, their wines encapsulate the essence of their love for winemaking utilising their creative and artistic flair to create exceptional wines that deliver an unforgettable experience to wine enthusiasts. See more
