From over 8000 wines and more than 945 wineries in this year’s Halliday Wine Companion awards, two Tasmanian producers have emerged onto the shortlist.
Tasmanian Winery House of Arras has been shortlisted in the Winery of the Year category, along with Anna Pooley from Pooley Wines being shortlisted in the Winemaker of the Year category.
The judging for the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Awards took place over two days in March, featuring a comprehensive blind tasting where the winners were collaboratively determined by the tasting team.
This year’s Companion included over 60 new producers who submitted their wines for the first time, alongside thousands of tasting notes and scores for wines reviewed throughout the year.
“The annual Halliday awards offer winemakers, viticulturists, wine drinkers, and the agricultural and farming communities the opportunity to pause and acknowledge the breadth of talent, quality, and skill in the Australian wine landscape, said Katrina Butler, Head of Tasting at Halliday Wine Companion.
“We look forward to celebrating our makers and their wares and sharing their accolades with the rest of the world.”
While the awards celebrate industry excellence, the Halliday People’s Choice Award shines a light on the best winery experiences across the country.
Nominations are based on criteria such as standout cellar door experiences, outstanding restaurant offerings, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and overall quality of wines.
People’s Choice Award
Wine lovers are encouraged to cast their vote for the 2026 People’s Choice Award on winecompanion.com.au.
Submissions close at 23:59 on Thursday, 31 July 2025, with entrants having a chance to win a prize pack valued at over $1300.
The People’s Choice Award winner will be announced on Saturday, 16August 2025.
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