The 2026 Shortlist

Winemaker of the Year: The Finalists

By Halliday Wine Companion

Meet the 2026 Winemaker of the Year finalists and discover why they have been nominated by the Halliday Tasting Team.

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This shortlist commemorates the best winemakers in Australia and is reserved for those who have continued to produce exceptional wines. It is a great celebration of the people who do their darndest to put stunning wines on our tables, and into our lives.

These finalists are pushing Australian wine to even greater heights – innovating when necessary, and sticking true to timeless tradition when needed.

Read on to find the finalists for this year’s Winemaker of the Year, as chosen by the Tasting Team.


Halliday Wine Companion 2026 Winemaker of the Year Finalist

Adam Foster, Syrahmi

Where: Heathcote, Victoria