Sydney's Cirrus Wins Australia's Wine List of the Year Award
Sydney's Cirrus Wins Australia's Wine List of the Year Award
2023 Winner Cirrus
Explore this year's award-winning wine lists at a venue near you.
NSW Wine is the short name for the NSW Wine Industry Association, which advocates for the NSW wine industry and provides information and a sense of belonging to its members.
Download Media Release HERE
Sydney waterfront restaurant Cirrus Dining has been crowned Australia’s Wine List of the Year at the 30th anniversary of Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards ceremony, held tonight at the Ovolo Hotel in Woolloomooloo NSW. The seafood jewel in Bentley Restaurant Group’s crown of fine dining establishments, Cirrus Dining stood out among a record number of entrants at the milestone anniversary of the pinnacle industry event.
Bentley Restaurant Group is no stranger to presenting exceptional wine lists at Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards, having won Wine List of the Year for Bentley Restaurant + Bar in 2015. In addition to the major award, Cirrus Dining also won Best Wine List NSW and Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – City, with Cirrus sommeliers Polly Mackarel and Nick Hildebrandt jointly receiving the Judy Hirst Award for the sommeliers responsible for the winning list. Bentley Restaurant Group’s Bentley Restaurant & Bar also received the award for Best Aperitif List.
Other finalists for this year’s major award include Merivale’s Mr Wong in Sydney and Andrew McConnell’s Gimlet at Cavendish House in Melbourne.
“Continuing on last year’s record number of entries, 2023 saw another record year– with a 19% increase in venues submitting their lists for the Awards across all states and territories, demonstrating the growing number of restaurants, hotels, pubs, clubs and wine bars that realise the importance of a finely crafted wine and beverage list to the overall experience of diners,” Chairman of Judges Peter Forrestal said.
“While most might consider it a cliché to describe the various contests involved in the judging as ‘fiercely fought’, the phrase does suggest the close margins involved in many of the decisions made by the judges. As always, more than 30 local and international wine writers and sommeliers ranked the six finalists to decide the winner. Out of the 192 votes cast, while Cirrus ended up the decided winner, only three votes separated second, third and fourth.
“The strength of the Sydney dining establishments was reinforced this year with four of the six finalists plying their trade there: with Mr Wong, Bennelong and Woodcut all finalists alongside Cirrus. Gimlet at Cavendish House and Cutler & Co were close enough to suggest that Victorian diners have much in which to delight.”
On Cirrus’ extensive wine list, Australia’s Wine List of the Year judge and wine writer Jane Faulkner said: “This is a spectacular, innovative and thrilling list showcasing 1200 special bottles with 50 by the glass. Plenty of joy and difference on each page – and who else could offer an extensive mix of French chenin blanc or 17 aligoté with each desirable and perfect for this top seafood restaurant. Bravo.”
Kirsten Galliott, Editor-in-Chief of Major Awards Partner Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider, said of this year’s awards: “It is wonderful to witness the hospitality industry on the road to recovery this year, and I’m thrilled to see a renewed dedication to excellence. The skill, resilience and vision of Australia’s sommeliers and restaurateurs is first-rate, and this is a terrific recognition of the wine and beverage lists they create.”
“The Drinks Association is proud to be a major partner for the 30th anniversary of the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards. These awards not only celebrate the excellence of sommeliers and establishments but also foster a vibrant wine culture in Australia. I extend my warmest congratulations to the outstanding achievers who continue to elevate the world of fine wine and hospitality,” Georgia Lennon, CEO of the Drinks Association, said.
Restaurants across the country were celebrated at the Awards with Italian & Sons (ACT), Cirrus (NSW), Agnes (QLD), Restaurant Botanic (SA), Peppina (TAS), Gimlet at Cavendish House (VIC), and The Shorehouse (WA) recognised as the ‘Best Wine List’ in their respective states and territories.
Returning category winners from the 2022 Awards include CHU by China Doll (Best Restaurant Wine List – Club), Settlers Tavern (Best Restaurant Wine List – Country), Stillwater (Best Listing of a Region’s Wines), and The Shorehouse (Best Wine List WA).
The number of wine lists submitted with under 200 wines was at a record high this year, with this excellent collection taking home five awards in total. This also reflects the judges’ shared recognition that it is harder to craft a great small list than a large one. The most popular categories entered this year continued from 2022’s popular categories: Best Wines by the Glass, Best Listing of Australian Wines and Best Food & Wine Matching – again all with a record number of entries.
The industry also celebrated its own at the ceremony, with the Sommelier’s Choice Award being bestowed upon two sommeliers – Foni Pollit from British-style gastropub Mayfair Lane (WA) and Alexandra McPherson from SK Steak & Oyster restaurant (QLD). The public also voted for Australia’s favourite wine list, with Catalina in Rose Bay (NSW) taking the title of Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider’s Australia’s Choice Award title.
With the growing diversity of Australia’s wine lists, several new Awards were added to this year’s event, including Australia’s Best Listing of Italian Wines which was awarded to Bistecca (NSW), Australia’s Best Listing of French Wines received by Society (VIC), Australia’s Best Cocktail List which went to Sarino’s (NSW), and Australia’s Best Listing of USA Wines which was given to SK Steak & Oyster (QLD).
The industry continues to excel in compiling and presenting top-quality wine lists, as noted by the outstanding 246 venues to receive a Three Glass ranking this year – up from 201 in 2022, a figure Rob Hirst, founder of Australia’s Wine List of the Year, recognises as a sign of the nation’s position as a world-class provider of exceptional wining and dining experiences.
“Since day one, we set the bar high for a wine list to achieve a Three Glass ranking. Our first Awards in 1994 recognised nine lists with this outstanding honour, and it’s rewarding to see nearly 250 venues across the country achieve such a high quality standard of wine list and service excellence 30 years after we started the program. These venues should be very proud of all they have put into their lists, and we are very happy to bring the industry together to celebrate these outstanding venues and their talented sommeliers,” Hirst said.
Established in 1993 by Rob, his late wife Judy, and Tucker Seabrook, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards celebrates the depth of talent, dedication and sheer commitment of sommeliers and venue owners across Australia to build and maintain great wine lists and the cellars behind them.
The Awards judging panel comprises of 32 of the world’s most respected wine industry talent. The panel is directed by Forrestal, alongside Deputy Chairs Jeni Port and Toni Paterson MW. Founder of the Court of Master Sommeliers Bryan Julyan MS is the International Chair, with 28 judges, including four Master Sommeliers and seven Masters of Wine, from Australia and the balance from New Zealand, Germany, the United States, France, Hong Kong, and Great Britain representing the international jury.
ALL WINNERS OF AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2023
NATIONAL WINNER
Australia’s Wine List of the Year Cirrus Dining
Judy Hirst Award Polly Mackarel & Nick Hildebrandt
STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS
Best Wine List ACT Italian & Sons
Best Wine List NSW Cirrus Dining
Best Wine List QLD Agnes
Best Wine List SA Restaurant Botanic
Best Wines List TAS Peppina
Best Wine List VIC Gimlet at Cavendish House
Best Wine List WA The Shorehouse
TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS
Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – City Cirrus Dining
Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – Club CHU by China Doll
Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – Country Settlers Tavern
Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – Hotel Woodcut
Australia’s Best Restaurant Wine List – Pub Mayfair Lane
Australia’s Best Wine Bar List – Where’s Nick
The Fiona Macdonald Award
CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS
Australia’s Best New Wine List – Olivine Wine Bar
The Tony Hitchin Award
Australia’s Best Wine List (50 Wines) Jimmy Wah’s
Australia’s Best Wine List (100 Wines) Rizla
Australia’s Best Wine List (200 Wines) Restaurant Botanic
Australia’s Best List of Wines by the Glass Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth
Australia’s Best Food & Wine Matching List Amaru
Australia’s Best Champagne List Quay
Australia’s Best Sparkling List Cru Bar + Cellar
Australia’s Best Non-Alcoholic List Bells at Killcare
Australia’s Best Aperitif List Bentley Restaurant + Bar
Australia’s Best Digestif List Agnes
Australia’s Best Sake List Leonie Upstairs
Australia’s Best Beer List Mojo’s Kitchen & Bar
Australia’s Best Cocktail List Sarino’s
Australia’s Best Listing of French Wines Society
Australia’s Best Listing of Italian Wines Bistecca
Australia’s Best Listing of USA Wines SK Steak & Oyster
Australia’s Best Listing of a Region’s Wines Stillwater
Australia’s Best Listing of Australian Wines Café Sydney
Australia’s Best Listing of ACT Wines Brunello
Australia’s Best Listing of NSW Wines Charred Kitchen & Bar
Australia’s Best Listing of QLD Wines SK Steak & Oyster
Australia’s Best Listing of SA Wines Uraidla Hotel
Australia’s Best Listing of TAS Wines Peppina
Australia’s Best Listing of VIC Wines Lake House
Australia’s Best Listing of WA Wines Mojo’s Kitchen & Bar
Best Wine List – Sommelier’s Choice Mayfair Lane (Foni Pollit) & SK Steak & Oyster (Alexander McPherson) Presented by VINTEC
Best Wine List – Australia’s Choice Catalina
Presented by Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider
AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS – HALL OF FAME 2023
NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS
*New Inductee* – Cru Bar + Cellar (2022)
Ten Minutes by Tractor (2021)
Attica (2020)
Jonah’s (2017)
Bentley Restaurant + Bar (2015)
Lake House (2014)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (2014)
Wickens at Royal Mail [as Royal Mail] (2012)
Pilu at Freshwater (2011)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Melbourne (2010)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (2009)
Aria (2003) – 20th Anniversary
INDIVIDUAL WINNERS – HALL OF FAME 2023
David Lawler (2018)
Franck Moreau MS (2014)
REGIONAL AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2023
Attica (Best Victorian Wine List) 2013, 2015, 2020
Blackbird (Best Queensland Wine List) 2017, 2018, 2020
Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Listing of Queensland Wines) 2019, 2020, 2021
Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Queensland Wine List) 2004, 2009, 2015
*New Inductee* – Point Leo (Best Listing of Victorian Wines) 2020, 2021, 2022
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (Best WA Wine List) 2011, 2012, 2014
Settlers Tavern (Best Listing of Western Australian Wines) 2017, 2018, 2019
Stillwater (Best Tasmanian Wine List) 2016, 2017, 2018
*New Inductee* Stillwater, (Best Listing of Tasmanian Wines) 2016, 2019, 2022
The Boat House, (Best Listing of ACT Wines) 2019, 2020, 2021
TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2023
Bert’s (Best Hotel Restaurant Wine List) 2018, 2019, 2020
*New Inductee* Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Wine Bar List) 2015, 2021, 2022
Glass Brasserie (Best International Hotel List) 2008, 2009, 2010
The Botanical Hotel (Best Pub Restaurant Wine List) 2012, 2013, 2014
Jonah’s (Best Hotel) 2015, 2016, 2017
Love, Tilly Devine (Best Wine Bar) 2013, 2016, 2017
Members Dining Room (Best Club) 2013, 2014, 2015 [as RACV City Club]
Newcastle Club (Best Club) 2018, 2019, 2021
Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (Best Club) 2003, 2004, 2008
Settlers Tavern (Best Pub) 2009, 2010, 2011 University House (Best Club) 1995, 1996, 1997
Wickens at Royal Mail (Best Country Restaurant) 2009, 2011, 2012 [as Royal Mail]
OTHER CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2023
Aria (Best Sparkling List) 2017, 2018, 2021
Attica (Best Non-Alcoholic) 2018, 2019, 2020
*New Inductee* Bennelong (Best Listing of Australian Wines) 2020, 2021, 2022
Chiswick, Woollahra (Best Small List-100) 2015, 2017, 2018
*New Inductee* Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Champagne List) 2018, 2021, 2022
Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Wine by the Glass List) 2017, 2020, 2021
*New Inductee* Ishizuka (Best Small List-50) 2020, 2021, 2022
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Aperitif) 2011, 2012, 2017
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Digestif) 2012, 2015, 2020
Aria (Reader’s Choice Award) 2011, 2012, 2013
**All Award Winners will be published in the October issue of QANTAS Magazine | Travel Insider as well as in Drinks Trade Magazine Summer and Drinks Trade online after 7:00pm AEST on Monday 25 September 2023. All Award Winners and all Glass Award recipients will also be listed on Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards Website at winelistoftheyear.com.au after 7:00 pm AEST on Monday, 25 September.
ENDS
For interviews, further information and images, please contact:
Brian Chase Olson | Blend Public Relations | brian@blendpr.com.au | m. 0435 403 608
Elaine Millar | elaine.millar@tuckerseabrook.com | 0414 258 633
Rob Hirst | Australia’s Wine List of the Year | rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com | 0416 011 838
Download media release HERE
Calling all creators of the nation’s leading drinks lists – there is less than one week left to submit your lists for consideration in the 2023 edition of Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. Venue owners, sommeliers and beverage directors have until 11:59 PM on 15 May 2023 to submit their lists to the esteemed judging panel behind Australia’s most prestigious wine and beverage list recognition program.
“Now’s the time to receive the recognition you so rightly deserve for curating an exceptional drinks list within your venue,” Australia’s Wine List of the Year Founder Rob Hirst said.
“Our 30th year is set to be our biggest yet with even more opportunities for this year’s distinguished winners to receive widespread recognition for their work in crafting exceptional drinks lists to enhance the dining experience for customers.”
“It was such an honour and a surprise to win Australia’s Wine List of the Year in 2022. The recognition from the industry and from new and old customers alike has been a huge boost for our team and venue. There is no other award recognition like Wine List of the Year, and I highly encourage any venue owner, sommelier or beverage director to seriously consider putting themselves forward for 2023,” Cru Bar & Cellar Wine List & Retail Manager Chris Walker said.
In addition to entering their wine and beverage lists, entrants will be invited to submit their votes for the Sommelier’s Choice Awards. This is an opportunity for Sommeliers to nominate their own choice as the Best Wine List in the country.
And following its inaugural debut last year, the Wine List Service Award returns as an optional category for entrants to demonstrate their venue’s focus on exceptional wine service in terms of cellar storage, ‘by the glass’ preservation, and service of wines in exceptional quality glassware.
The entry portal is available on the homepage at www.winelistoftheyear.com.au. The entry fee is $195 (ex. GST), and all entries must be submitted into the portal before the deadline for consideration.
In an expansion of this year’s Awards categories, Australia’s Wine List of the Year will be awarding one venue the title of ‘Australia’s Best Cocktail List’ in recognition of the exceptional work being done by bars, restaurants, hotels, clubs and pubs to curate an impressive list of cocktails to suit their customers.
Chairman of Judges Peter Forrestal, International Chair Brian Julyan MS, and Deputy Chairs Toni Paterson MW and Jeni Port lead this year’s judging panel. The 30-strong selection of independent judges is further split into two groups – the Judging Panel and International Jury. The panel comprises some of Australia’s premier wine and drinks talent, including Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, expert wine communicators and writers. Recent additions to the judging panel include Amelia Ball, long-term wine and drinks editor and journalist, and Kim Bickley, award-winning sommelier, wine judge and educator.
Lists are ranked from one to three glasses. The best of the best are then in contention to win the highly prized best in State / Territory, Type of Trade, Category Awards and, of course, Australia’s Wine List of the Year. For the Category Awards, entrants can submit their lists in a diverse range of categories such as Best Listing of Wines by the Glass, Best Food and Wine Matching, Best New, Best Small, also by beverage specialities and lists showcasing the wines from specific States / Territories or regions. To see the complete listing of categories, visit www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
This year’s Awards celebration is set to take place on 25 September 2023 at a premier Sydney location. Like previous year’s events, members of the trade will be invited to experience the entire program of events, including the Producer Tasting Trail, Masterclasses, Sommelier & Judges ‘Speed Dating’ guidance and the Awards Ceremony. More information about the event will be revealed later this year.
Established in 1993 by Rob Hirst, his late wife Judy (after whom the main Award is named), and Tucker Seabrook, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards celebrate the depth of talent, dedication and sheer commitment of sommeliers and venue owners across Australia to build and maintain great wine lists and the cellars behind them.
The entry link is now live to enter Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards—details and submission link are available at www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
Important dates to remember for this year’s Awards:
ENTRIES CLOSE: Monday 15th May 2023
AWARDS PRESENTATION (SYDNEY): Monday 25th September 2023
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Media – Brian Chase Olson
E: brian@blendpr.com.au M: 0435 403608
Partnerships – Victoria James
E: victoria@winelistoftheyear.com M: 0429 996817
Entrant Enquiries – Michael Nicholls
E: awards@winelistoftheyear.com
Director – Tucker Seabrook / AWLOTY – Elaine Millar
E: elaine@tuckerseabrook.com M: 0414 258633
Chairman Tucker Seabrook (Awards Owner) – Rob Hirst
Founder Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards
E: rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com M: 0416 011838
W: Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards – winelistoftheyear.com.au
Download Press Release HERE
Calling all creators of the nation’s leading drinks lists – entries for the 30th edition of Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards will officially open on Monday, 3 April 2023. Venue owners, sommeliers and beverage directors have less than one month to go until they can submit their entries to the esteemed judging panel behind Australia’s most prestigious wine and beverage list recognition program.
Entries for all categories in the competition will close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 15 May 2023. Entries must be submitted via the online form, with the link made available from 3 April. Keen entrants are recommended to sign up to the Wine List of the Year mailing list to be the first to access the entry form – via link at – www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
“It’s wonderful that Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards are in their 30th year,” Australia’s Wine List of the Year Founder Rob Hirst said.
“Looking back at the winners and entries over the last 30 years shows the incredible evolution that’s taken place across the Australian hospitality sector. The quality continues to grow every year and now reaches beyond the restaurants into pubs, hotels, clubs and wine bars across every corner of the continent. I am thrilled we’ll be marking this 30th anniversary with an even bigger and better awards program.”
Returning as this year’s presenting consumer media partner for the Awards is Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider. This presents an extraordinary opportunity for Australia’s top wine and beverage list creators – and the outstanding cellars behind them – to reach hundreds of thousands of readers nationwide and receive the ultimate recognition for their continued pursuit of excellence.
“This is one of most premium wine awards programs in the country – and the only one to recognise the time, knowledge and care it takes to create a memorable wine list. Qantas passengers are very discerning when it comes to their restaurant choices, and through this partnership, we can offer them the ultimate guide to Australia’s best wining and dining experiences,” Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider Editor-in-Chief Kirsten Galliott said.
Continuing its past invaluable support as trade media partner is the pre-eminent supplier of information and services to the Australian liquor trade, The Drinks Association.
“For 30 years, these Awards have championed the restaurants and bars that have lifted the standard of wine lists in their venues right around Australia. The Drinks Association is proud to continue its partnership with the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards again in 2023 and to toasting this year’s winners and all who have gone before them from 1994 until now. Congratulations to all the Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards team for making these Awards the important celebration they are today.” CEO of the Drinks Association Georgia Lennon said.
The 30-strong independent judging panel includes highly respected local and international Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, expert wine communicators, previous national Wine List Award winners and Sommeliers Australia representatives who are tasked to assess all lists – big and small. The calibre and breadth of judges ensure the Awards maintain their prestige and recognition as the pre-eminent program for sommeliers, venue owners, and managers across restaurants, hotels, pubs, clubs and wine bars. Recent additions to the judging panel include Amelia Ball, long-term wine and drinks editor and journalist, and Kim Bickley, award-winning sommelier, wine judge and educator.
Lists are ranked from one to three glasses. The best of the best are then in contention to win the highly prized best in State / Territory, Type of Trade, Category Awards and, of course, Australia’s Wine List of the Year. For the Category Awards, entrants can submit their lists in a diverse range of categories such as Best Listing of Wines by the Glass, Best Food and Wine Matching, Best New, Best Small, also by beverage specialities and lists showcasing the wines from specific States / Territories or regions. To see the full listing of categories, visit www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
2022 was an exciting year for the Awards – the first physical event after the easing of COVID restrictions. The Awards received a record number of entries from across Australia, and a record number of Glass Award venues and sommeliers were recognised at the event. This was exemplified in the 201 Three Glass Lists recognised in 2022, an extraordinary increase on the only 9 Three Glass lists awarded in the inaugural events in 1994. See the full listing of winners at www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
Established in 1993 by Rob Hirst, his late wife Judy (after whom the main Award is named), and Tucker Seabrook, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards celebrate the depth of talent, dedication and sheer commitment of sommeliers and venue owners across Australia to build and maintain great wine lists and the cellars behind them.
Registrations to enter Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards will open from 12:01 am on Monday, 3 April 2023. Details and submission link available at www.winelistoftheyear.com.au.
Key dates to mark in your calendars for 2023:
ENTRIES OPEN: Monday 3rd April 2023
EARLY BIRD ENTRIES CLOSE: Monday 1st May 2023
ENTRIES CLOSE: Monday 15th May 2023
AWARDS PRESENTATION: Monday 25th September 2023
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Media – Brian Chase Olson
E: brian@blendpr.com.au M: 0435 403608
Partnerships – Victoria James
E: victoria@winelistoftheyear.com M: 0429 996817
Entrant Enquiries – Michael Nicholls
E: awards@winelistoftheyear.com
Director – Tucker Seabrook / AWLOTY – Elaine Millar
E: elaine@tuckerseabrook.com M: 0414 258633
Chairman Tucker Seabrook (Awards Owner) – Rob Hirst
Founder Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards
E: rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com M: 0416 011838
W: Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards – winelistoftheyear.com.au
Download Media Release HERE
Celebrating an outstanding 20 years in operation in 2022, in addition to taking out the major award, Cru Bar + Cellar also took the titles of Australia’s Best Wine Bar List and Australia’s Best Champagne List. At the same time, the venue’s sommelier Chris Walker received the prestigious Judy Hirst Award for the Sommelier responsible for the winning List. Other finalists for the main Australia’s Wine List of the Year Award in 2022 included Sydney’s Bennelong and Melbourne’s Cutler & Co.
This year’s program saw a record number of entries, even compared to pre-COVID event years, a statistic that Chairman of Judges Peter Forrestal is pleased to see for the wider industry.
“We’ve seen the resilience of the hospitality industry in incredibly difficult times during the pandemic. Although many are still doing it tough, Australia’s Wine List of the Year in 2022 suggests that the industry is hitting back,” Forrestal said.
“Entries in the Awards are at an all-time high. The number of restaurants achieving a three-star rating exceeded 200 for the first time, and there is similar strength in the two glass ratings. Judging by the quality of the lists, sommeliers have never been better trained. If stocks were drained during the pandemic, they are back to normal now.
“Brisbane’s Cru Bar + Cellar has finally won Australia’s Wine List of the Year after 20 years at the top of its game. Cru first drew our attention as the winner of the Best List in Queensland in 2004. Since then, it has just about won every award on offer (but not Best Small List). Possibly Cru’s three wins of Australia’s Best List of Wines by the Glass signalled its intentions, and more recently, a complete revamp of the design of their list reinforced their claims to be among the nation’s elite. Their support of the fledgling Queensland wine industry is noteworthy. Chris Walker has Cru humming like never before: it’s a place to taste (around 80 wines) by the glass, to shop, and to dine with some divine Champagne and a lovingly cellared red. It’s deservedly Australia’s Wine List of the Year in 2022.”
In describing the wine list at Cru Bar + Cellar, Deputy Chair of Judges Toni Paterson MW said: “Are words enough to describe this fabulous list? Simply put, no. One must go to Cru, the ultimate ‘destination wine bar’, to absorb all of its vinous brilliance. There are 80 wines by the glass (80!) served using the Coravin system. And this includes Champagne. Not only is the list utterly stunning, but there’s also a description for every wine, so you can learn about the producer and use the tasting note to see if the wine is right for you.”
Kirsten Galliott, Editor-in-Chief of Major Awards Partner Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider said of this year’s awards: “It’s a wonderful opportunity to turn the spotlight on Australia’s sommeliers and restaurateurs. It has been another challenging year for the hospitality industry, but I am so cheered by the pursuit of excellence, the attention to detail and the championing of the wine industry.”
“It is wonderful to see the popularity of these awards grow and grow, especially as we emerge from the challenges of the past two years. I acknowledge all the venues that submitted entries this year. Having weathered the storm of the past two years and to now be back pairing your menus with the best Australian and international wines is no small feat. We love what you do,” Georgia Lennon, CEO of the Drinks Association, also a Major Partner in the awards, said.
Outstanding performers recognised on the night include Bennelong, which took home the title for Best Wine List NSW and Australia’s Best City Restaurant Wine List, Canberra’s Brunello (first opened in December 2021), which took home the Best Wine List ACT, Best Listing of ACT Wines and Australia’s Best New List awards, and Shangri-La Sydney’s Altitude Restaurant receiving the nation’s Best Hotel Restaurant Wine List in addition to tying with Bennelong for the nation’s Best Listing of Australian Wines.
The most popular category entered this year was the Best List of Wines by The Glass, showcasing that more and more venues are allowing diners to experiment, learn and spend on quality wines and expanding the options for food and wine matching throughout the meal. This award went to last year’s Wine List of the Year Winner Ten Minutes by Tractor, in addition to being inducted to the 2022 Hall of Fame, joining previous winners such as Attica (2020), Jonah’s (2017), Bentley Restaurant + Bar (2015), and Aria (2003).
Other awards recognised on the night include the consumer’s Australia’s Choice Award run in partnership with Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider. Cottesloe, WA venue Il Lido captured readers’ hearts by winning the publicly voted prize.
This year, the judges ushered in a new recognition as part of the judging process – the Wine List Service Award. Over recent years, there has been feedback from industry professionals for an award that recognises and rewards those venues and sommeliers who demonstrate that they understand the critical importance of cellar storage, ‘by the glass’ preservation, and service of wines in exceptional quality glassware. Therefore, venues that have invested in temperature-controlled refrigeration or infrastructure, preservation systems for ‘by the glass’ service, and premium glassware are given additional recognition to symbolise their attention to detail when it comes to wine care and service.
In its inaugural year, 138 venues entered this award, with 51 venues ranked as being at the ‘Three Glass’ level and therefore receiving the 2022 Wine List Service Award Seal.
“Exceptional service of wine is becoming increasingly important to the overall dining experience. Diners’ expectations have increased to the level where they anticipate a wine to be served at the right temperature and in the correct glassware. Even further, there is a growing demand to experience icon or aged wines without investing in an entire bottle. Venues have responded ahead of the trend – building the necessary tools in their venues to cater to increased demands from diners. This new Wine List Service Award recognises that,” Australia’s Wine List of the Year Founder Rob Hirst said.
Established in 1993 by Rob, his late wife Judy and Tucker Seabrook, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards celebrate the depth of talent, dedication and sheer commitment of sommeliers and venue owners across Australia to build and maintain great wine lists and the cellars behind them.
The Awards judging panel is made up of 30 of some of the world’s most respected wine talent. The panel is coordinated by Forrestal, alongside Deputy Chairs Jeni Port and Toni Paterson MW. Founder of the Court of Master Sommeliers Bryan Julyan MS is the International Chair, with 23 judges from Australia, and the balance from New Zealand, Germany, United States, France, Hong Kong, and Great Britain representing the international jury.
“The Awards remain as respected as they are due in large part to the calibre of excellent judges brought together by Peter Forrestal, Jeni Port and Toni Paterson MW. The global experience of these highly qualified wine writers, expert show judges, and leading sommeliers gives entrants a unique opportunity for some of the best and brightest to evaluate their wine lists,” Hirst said.
“Finally, huge congratulations to all venues that have entered lists this year and have won Glass Awards. The passion and professionalism demonstrated in this year’s entries is a true sign that Australia’s hospitality sector is resilient in the face of challenging times and delivering a beyond world-class offering for diners to experience.”
ALL WINNERS OF AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022
NATIONAL WINNER | |
Australia’s Wine List of the Year | Cru Bar + Cellar |
Judy Hirst Award | Chris Walker |
STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS | |
Best Wine List ACT | Brunello |
Best Wine List NSW | Bennelong |
Best Wine List QLD | Bella Venezia |
Best Wine List SA | Fishbank |
Best Wines List TAS | Fico |
Best Wine List VIC | Cutler & Co. |
Best Wine List WA | Shorehouse |
TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS | |
Best City Restaurant Wine List | Bennelong |
Best Club Restaurant Wine List | Chu by China Doll |
Best Country Restaurant Wine List | Settlers Tavern |
Best Hotel Restaurant Wine List | Altitude |
Best Pub Restaurant Wine List | Lamaro’s |
Best Wine Bar List | Cru Bar + Cellar |
CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS | |
The Tony Hitchin Award (Best New List) | Brunello |
Best Wine List (50 Wines) | Congress |
Best Wine List (100 Wines) | Firedoor |
Best Wine List (200 Wines) | China Doll |
Best List of Wines by The Glass | Ten Minutes by Tractor |
Best Food & Wine Matching List | Pendolino |
Best Champagne List | Cru Bar + Cellar |
Best Sparkling List | Shorehouse |
Best Non-Alcoholic List | Bistro Sociale |
Best Aperitif List | de Vine Food & Wine |
Best Digestif List | Charred Kitchen & Bar |
Best Sake List | Tsunami |
Best Beer List | Cookie |
Best Listing of a Region’s Wines | Stillwater |
Best Listing of Australian Wines | Altitude & Bennelong |
Best Listing of ACT Wines | Brunello |
Best Listing of NSW Wines | Charred Kitchen & Bar |
Best Listing of SA Wines | The Salopian Inn |
Best Listing of TAS Wines | Stillwater |
Best Listing of VIC Wines | Pt Leo Estate |
Best Listing of WA Wines | Mojo’s Kitchen |
Best Wine List – Sommelier’s Choice | Le Rebelle (Sarah Atkinson) & Where’s Nick (Bridget Raffal) |
Best Wine List – Australia’s Choice | Il Lido |
Presented by Qantas Magazine | Travel Insider |
AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS – HALL OF FAME 2022
*New Inductee* Ten Minutes by Tractor (2021)
Attica (2020)
Jonah’s (2017)
Bentley Restaurant + Bar (2015)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (2014)
Wickens at Royal Mail (2012) [as Royal Mail]
Pilu at Freshwater (2011)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Melbourne (2010)
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (2009)
Aria (2003)
INDIVIDUAL WINNERS – HALL OF FAME 2022
David Lawler (2018)
Franck Moreau MS (2014)
REGIONAL AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2022
Apoteca (Best SA) 2004, 2011, 2012 (as Apothecary 1878)
Attica (Best Victoria) 2013, 2015, 2020
Appellation (Best SA) 2008, 2009, 2010
Blackbird (Best Queensland) 2017, 2018, 2020
Char (Best NT) 2012, 2013, 2014
*New Inductee* Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Queensland) 2004, 2009, 2015, 2021
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (Best WA) 2011, 2012, 2014
Stillwater (Best Tasmanian) 2016, 2017, 2018
Terrace, Launceston, (Best Tasmanian) 2008, 2009, 2019
TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2022
Bert’s (Best Hotel) 2018, 2019, 2020
The Botanical (Best Pub) 2012, 2013, 2014
Glass Brasserie (Best International Hotel) 2008, 2009, 2010
Jonah’s (Best Hotel) 2015, 2016, 2017
Love, Tilly Devine (Best Wine Bar) 2013, 2016, 2017
Members Dining Room (Best Club) 2013, 2014, 2015 [as RACV City Club]
*New Inductee* Newcastle Club (Best Club) 2018, 2019, 2021
Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (Best Club) 2003, 2004, 2008
Settlers Tavern (Best Pub) 2009, 2010, 2011
Wickens at Royal Mail (Best Country Restaurant) 2009, 2011, 2012 [as Royal Mail]
CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2022
*New Inductee* Aria (Best Sparkling) 2017, 2018, 2021
Attica (Best Non-Alcoholic) 2018, 2019, 2020
Avoca Hotel (Best Beer) 2018, 2019, 2020
Chiswick, Woollahra (Best Small List: 100) 2015, 2017, 2018
*New Inductee* Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Wine List By The Glass) 2017, 2020, 2021
“New Inductee* Ishizuka (Best Wine List (50 Wines) 2019, 2020, 2021
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Aperitif) 2011, 2012, 2017
Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Digestif) 2012, 2015, 2020
Settlers Tavern (Best Listing of Western Australian Wines) 2017, 2018, 2019
Aria (Reader’s Choice Award) 2011, 2012, 2013
**All Award Winners will be published in the October issue of QANTAS Magazine | Travel Insider as well as in Drinks Trade Magazine and Drinks Trade online after 6:00pm AEST on Monday 26 September 2022. All Award Winners and all Glass Award recipients will also be listed on Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards Website at winelistoftheyear.com.au after 6:00pm AEST on Monday, 26 September.
For interviews, further information and images, please contact:
Brian Chase Olson | Blend Public Relations | brian@blendpr.com.au | m. 0435 403 608
Elaine Millar | elaine@elainemillar.com | 0414 258 633
Rob Hirst | Australia’s Wine List of the Year | rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com | 0416 011 838
A special thanks to this year’s Awards Partners and Supporters
on behalf of the Awards and the Industry
Thanks again to our Venue Partners 12 Micron for their assistance with this special event to recognise, reward and celebrate our well-deserved winners for what they have achieved.
We and our media partners Qantas Magazine / Travel Insider and the Drinks Association, plus all our Award Partners look forward to sharing these results with everyone on that day.
Monday 4 April 2022: It’s that time of the year again for the talented creators and owners of Australia’s leading wine and beverage lists to be recognised, for their knowledge, talent, and experience, by the independent Domestic and International judging panel of Australia’s most prestigious such Awards program – Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards.
Download media release HERE
The Awards exciting new partnership with QANTAS magazine and Travel Insider presents an extraordinary opportunity for Australia’s best wine and beverage list creators – and the outstanding cellars behind them – to receive the recognition they so richly deserve for their continued pursuit of excellence, whilst at the same time deliver a guide for consumers that will uncover the best wine lists across the country.
Entries are now open, and sommeliers and business owners have until Monday 16 May 2022 to submit their lists to the judges.
JUDGES –
The 30-strong independent judging panel includes highly respected local and international Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, expert wine communicators, previous national Wine List Award winners and Sommeliers Australia representatives, assessing each year’s lists – large and small. Little wonder that Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards are now rightfully renowned as being the most prestigious award program for Sommeliers and Owners – be they Restaurateurs, Hoteliers, Pub, Club or Wine Bars Managers.
AWARDS –
Lists are ranked from one to three glasses. The best of the best are then in contention for the highly prized State / Territory, Type of Trade, and Category Awards and of course – Australia’s best Wine List – Australia’s Wine List of the Year! With the Category Awards, entrants can submit their lists in a diverse range of categories such as Best Listing of Wines by the Glass, Best Food and Wine Matching, Best New, Best Small, also by beverage specialities and lists showcasing the wines from specific States / Territories and/or regions – see Website for the full listing of categories: – winelistoftheyear.com.au.
From their establishment in 1994 by Tucker Seabrook and Rob and his late wife Judy Hirst, the Awards have always been a platform to recognise, reward and celebrate the very best Australia has to offer in the way of Wine Lists – that critical ‘other half’ of the perfect dining experience, and the outstanding individuals behind them. This continues to be the focus of the Awards today. Over the years, the quality of Australia’s wine lists has grown in line with the quality of the exceptional cuisine offered across Australia’s restaurants, hotels, clubs, pubs, and wine bars.
LAST YEAR’S RESULTS –
This unprecedented growth in the quality of Australia’s wine lists is reflected in the results now being achieved by the Awards entrants – from 9 x 3 Glass Lists in 1994 to 176 x 3 Glass Lists in 2021 – an outstanding result!
The most popular award category in 2021 remained Best Wine by the Glass, with preservation technology such as Coravin making this a perfect vehicle for offering premium wines to consumers. This was followed by Best Matching of Food and Wine – reflecting the close partnership between sommeliers and chefs. A renewed focus on Australian wines has also seen Best Listing of Australian Wines and Best Listing of a Region’s Wines rise in popularity indicating the desire to showcase the exciting work of local producers alongside imported wines and spirits.
To see the complete list of all 2021 winners, visit winelistoftheyear.com.au.
2022 AWARDS MEDIA PARTNERS –
Our communication partners for the 2022 Awards are again QANTAS magazine and Travel Insider (Consumer) and The Drinks Association (Trade), the pre-eminent supplier of information and services to the Australian liquor trade.
QANTAS magazine and Travel Insider return as the Awards’ official Consumer Communications Partner. Kirsten Galliott, Editor-in-Chief, said she is thrilled to partner with the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards again. “In the adversity of the past two years, we have seen some extraordinary innovations in the hospitality industry. Now, as Australians flock back to our restaurants, sommeliers are responding to their need to celebrate and reconnect with family and friends with new offerings. Qantas passengers are always looking for elevated experiences and I can’t wait to sift through the nominations this year so we can share them with our readers.”
Representing The Drinks Association – the Awards official Trade Communications Partner, Georgia Lennon, CEO, said “It is of the utmost importance that we continue to support our hospitality partners after these most challenging of years. There is such a depth of talent throughout the industry and The Drinks Association is proud to support the AWLOTYA again in 2022 and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of sommeliers and venues right around Australia. Come September, we’ll raise a glass to all winners and share their stories of success in Drinks Trade online and in print.”
2022 New Award: Australia’s Wine List of the Year (AWLOTY) – ‘Wine List Service Award’.
Over recent years, there has been feedback from industry professionals for an award to recognise and reward those venues and sommeliers who demonstrate that they understand the critical importance of carefully and professionally storing, ‘By the Glass’ preserving, and serving – in exceptional quality glassware, the wines on their Wine List.
To address this need they have invested significantly in their –
Therefore, to recognise and reward this care and investment and to cater for this identified need in the future, a new Award is being introduced in 2022 – the AWLOTY – ‘Wine List Service Award’. (Note: Entering this Award is optional, and the score achieved has no impact upon a venue’s overall AWLOTY Awards score.)
AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS – 2022 KEY DATES:
ENTRIES OPEN: Monday 4th April 2022
ENTRIES CLOSE: Monday 16th May 2022
AWARDS PRESENTATION: Monday 26th September 2022
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Founder – Rob Hirst,
E: rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com M: 0416 011838
W: Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards – winelistoftheyear.com.au
Awards Coordinator – Lara Jago,
E: lara@winelistoftheyear.com.au
Partnerships – Victoria James,
E: victoria@winelistoftheyear.com M: 0429 996817
Media – Elaine Millar,
E: elaine@winelistoftheyear.com M: 0414 258633
Entrant Enquiries – Michael Nicholls,
E: michael@winelistoftheyear.com M: 0414 621838
E: awards@winelistoftheyear.com
– THANK YOU –
On behalf of Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards and the Industry, sincere thanks to all the 2022 Awards Partners below for making this year’s Awards possible.
Download Media Release HERE
According to Chair of Judges Peter Forrestal – “It’s a story for the ages: a great restaurant and an astounding wine list that have evolved from the ashes of a 2018 fire which closed the venue for 18 months. Owners Martin and Karen Spedding, chef Adam Sanderson and sommelier Xavier Vigier all deserve credit for their part in the resurrection, recreating and revitalisation of Ten Minutes by Tractor. In its wine list, they have reconceptualised the notion of the winery restaurant; given clearer definition to the idea of evoking a sense of place; offered a unique exploration of the wines of Mornington, placing them alongside the great wines of Australia and the world. All this has made for a fascinating list. Xavier Vigier takes his place alongside Australia’s finest sommeliers as the latest winner of the Judy Hirst Award, given annually to the sommelier responsible for the winning list”.
Deputy Chair of Judges, Jeni Port, declared of Ten Minutes by Tractor‘ A love letter to wine if ever there was one, this list takes absolute joy in the people, the regions, and the ever-changing moods of wine whether it be on the Mornington Peninsula, the rest of the country, or the world.‘
Of the overall Awards, Peter Forrestal, continued – ‘While the Pandemic and its associated lockdowns made this arguably the most trying year ever for the hospitality industry, one of its signature trademarks – the wine lists – show a resilience and professionalism that flies in the face of such adversity. It continues a trend that we noted last year and reflects particularly well on the quality of education and training which is now widely available”.
Commenting on their new partnership with Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards, Kirsten Galliott, Editor in Chief, QANTAS Magazine and Travel Insider said– “It’s a privilege to partner with the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards and celebrate the achievements of Australia’s sommeliers and restaurants. It has obviously been an incredibly challenging couple of years for the industry but despite everything, we’ve seen innovation and new ways of thinking, as well as just a sheer tenacity to hang on and come back bigger and better.”
The numbers of entrants in 2021 is an all-time high and the stratospheric quality is reflected in the record number of 176 lists awarded three glasses. This compares favourably to 157 last year and only nine in 1994.
Finalists for the top Award in 2021 are – in one of the toughest fields ever, – Bennelong, Bert’s Bar & Brasserie, Cirrus, all from Sydney, Cru Bar + Cellar Brisbane and Florentino, Melbourne.
The Awards judging panel of 35 respected Australian and international judges – coordinated by Chair, Peter Forrestal, and Deputy Chairs, Jeni Port and Toni Paterson MW, includes Brian Julyan MS, Founder of the Court of Master Sommeliers, as International Chair; plus, five Master Sommeliers and seven Masters of Wine, wine judges, educators, wine media and previous award winners. “It is the nature and calibre of these independent judges as well as their global recognition and the respect in which they are held that sets these awards apart,” acknowledged Australia’s Wine List of the Year Founder Rob Hirst.
A further international perspective was provided by International Chair Brian Julyan MS– “Another year and another excellent set of Wine Lists which made the judging ever more difficult. Some imaginative Wine and Food matching has become an excellent vehicle to recommend some of the less well-known wines as well as traditional favourites and an opportunity to introduce some emerging stars. The continued extension of the wines by the glass section is offering the customer an ever-increasing number of choices and experiences. A number of lists now include indications of wines which are classified as Organic, Biodynamic and Vegan and this will be welcomed by an ever-growing number of customers. In a difficult year for the Industry, the Sommelier and management teams have shown there has been no let-up in the pursuit of quality”.
The other great strength of Australia’s Wine List of the Year can be seen by the calibre of the lists which vied for the 35 individual awards on offer. These highlight the talents of sommeliers and the commitment of owners to offering a diverse and challenging restaurant experience.
The outstanding performer here was Brisbane’s Cru Bar + Cellar, already a Hall of Famer as Queensland winner three times. In 2021, it won Best Wine Bar List, Best Listing of Queensland Wines, Best List of Wines by the Glass and Best Champagne List.
Charred Kitchen & Bar continues to punch above its weight and shines the light on what is possible in a vibrant country town such as Orange with wins in Best Listing of NSW Wines and Best Beer List.
David and Sarah Lawler’s tiny list at Ishizuka won Best Small List (50 Wines) for the third time as well as Best Non-Alcoholic List, an increasingly eagerly sought-after award.
Almost twenty years after it won Australia’s Wine List of the Year, Aria continues to feature among the awards. In 2021, it has won the Best Sparkling Wine Listand because of the attention to detail and rigour of its sommeliers is placed in three other awards including runner-up in the fiercely contested Best Listing of Australian Wines.
Continuing the theme of Golden Oldies, Giovanni Pilu and his team has won the prestigious Best Wine and Food Matching Award, ten years after Pilu at Freshwater won the top award.
Our most popular awards continue to be Best Wine by the Glass with the innovative technology of Coravin transforming that category as the perfect vehicle for offering premium wines to customers. Best Matching of Food & Wine continues to reflect the ever-closer liaison between sommeliers and chefs while consumer interest and sommelier desire ensures the showcasing of local wines: hence the continued support for Best Listing of Australian Wines and Best Listing of a Region’s Wines.
The new award, Best Wine List (200 Wines), which was introduced to cater for the trimmed-down nature of post Covid wine lists, was well-supported as were Best Wine List (100 Wines) and Best Wine List (50 Wines).
The other new award in 2021 was our consumers’ – ‘Australia’s Choice Award’, run with QANTAS / Travel Insiderand to quote the Editor in Chief Kirsten Galliott – “It’s also been great to see the public get behind these awards with a huge number of people voting for their favourite wine list in our inaugural Australia’s Choice Award. There is a lot of goodwill for the hospitality industry and my great hope is that 2022 is going to be the year of fun. Thankfully, fun is what our great restaurants specialise in.”
Rob Hirst commented that although for many, 2021 was harder in hospitality than it had been during the previous year, it was extraordinary to see the response translate into record entries in the Awards.
It was reassuring to receive the overwhelming feedback from the industry which was – ‘Thanks for going ahead with the Awards again this year – they are really important to us as whatever happens, they firstly, give us recognition for what we have achieved – which stays with us forever’, and secondly, ‘these Awards are public and peer recognition for our venue and our team that we can use as a key part of our recovery plan to help us rebuild our business.‘
Once again, because of the Pandemic, not all lists will be as we judged them earlier in the year. However, we are sure that the public will understand and join us in celebrating the extraordinary passion and commitment of sommeliers and business owners who have achieved success in these Awards.
ALL WINNERS – AUSTRALIA’S WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2021
NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS
2021 Wine List of the Year – Ten Minutes by Tractor
Judy Hirst Award – Xavier Vigier
STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS
Best Wine List ACT – The Boat House
Best Wine List NSW – Cirrus Best Wine List QLD – Otto, Brisbane Best Wine List SA – Hardy’s Verandah Best Wine List TAS – Fico Best Wine List VIC – Ten Minutes by Tractor Best Wine List WA – Settlers Tavern TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS Best City Restaurant Wine List – Cirrus Best Club Restaurant Wine List – Newcastle Club Best Country Restaurant Wine List – Ten Minutes by Tractor Best Hotel Restaurant Wine List – Black Bar & Grill Best Pub Restaurant Wine List – Watervale Hotel Best Wine Bar List – Cru Bar + Cellar
CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS The Tony Hitchin Award (Best New List) – a’Mare Best Wine List (50 Wines) – Ishizuka Best Wine List (100 Wines) – Spice Temple, Sydney Best Wine List (200 Wines) – Fix Wine Bar + Restaurant Best List of Wines by The Glass – Cru Bar + Cellar Best Food & Wine Matching List – Pilu at Freshwater Best Champagne List – Cru Bar + Cellar Best Sparkling Wine List – Aria, Sydney Best Non-Alcoholic List – Ishizuka Best Aperitif List – One Penny Red Best Digestif List – Bistecca Best Sake List – Sokyo Best Beer List – Charred Kitchen & Bar Best Listing of a Region’s Wines – Settlers Tavern Best Listing of Australian Wines – Bennelong Best Listing of ACT Wines – The Boat House Best Listing of NSW Wines – Charred Kitchen & Bar Best Listing of Queensland Wines – Cru Bar + Cellar Best Listing of South Australian Wines – Hardy’s Verandah Best Listing of Tasmanian Wines – Terrace Kitchen Best Listing of Victorian Wines – Pt Leo Estate Best Listing of Western Australian Wines – Wildflower Best Wine List – Sommeliers’ Choice Award – Quay Restaurant Best Wine List – Australia’s Choice Award – Il Lido
HALL OF FAME 2021
NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2021 Attica (2020) Jonah’s (2017) Bentley Restaurant + Bar (2015) Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (2014) Wickens at Royal Mail (2012) [as Royal Mail] Pilu at Freshwater (2011) Rockpool Bar & Grill, Melbourne (2010) Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (2009) Aria (2003) INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2021 David Lawler (2018) Franck Moreau MS (2014) GEOGRAPHIC AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2021 Apoteca (Best SA) 2004, 2011, 2012 (as Apothecary 1878) Attica (Best Victoria) 2013, 2015, 2020 Appellation (Best SA) 2008, 2009, 2010 Blackbird (Best Queensland) 2017, 2018, 2020 Char (Best NT) 2012, 2013, 2014 Cru Bar + Cellar (Best Queensland) 2004, 2009, 2015 Rockpool Bar & Grill, Perth (Best WA) 2011, 2012, 2014 Stillwater (Best Tasmanian) 2016, 2017, 2018 Terrace, Launceston, (Best Tasmanian) 2008, 2009, 2019 TYPE OF TRADE AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2021 Bert’s (Best Hotel) 2018, 2019, 2020 The Botanical (Best Pub) 2012, 2013, 2014 Glass Brasserie (Best International Hotel) 2008, 2009, 2010 Jonah’s (Best Hotel) 2015, 2016, 2017 Love, Tilly Devine (Best Wine Bar) 2013, 2016, 2017 Members Dining Room (Best Club) 2013, 2014, 2015 [as RACV City Club] Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (Best Club) 2003, 2004, 2008 Settlers Tavern (Best Pub) 2009, 2010, 2011 Wickens at Royal Mail (Best Country Restaurant) 2009, 2011, 2012 [as Royal Mail] CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS – HALL OF FAME – 2021 Attica (Best Non-Alcoholic) 2018, 2019, 2020 Avoca Hotel (Best Beer) 2018, 2019, 2020 Chiswick, Woollahra (Best Small List: 100) 2015, 2017, 2018 Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Aperitif) 2011, 2012, 2017 Rockpool Bar & Grill, Sydney (Best Digestif) 2012, 2015, 2020 Settlers Tavern (Best Listing of Western Australian Wines) 2017, 2018, 2019 Aria (Reader’s Choice Award) 2011, 2012, 2013
**All Award Winners will be published in the December issues of QANTAS Magazine / Travel Insider and Drinks Trade Magazine and Drinks Trade online after 5:00pm AEDT on Monday 29 November 2021. All Award Winners and all Glass Award recipients will also be listed at winelistoftheyear.com.au after 5:00pm AEDST on Monday 29 November.
FOR INTERVIEWS, FURTHER INFORMATION AND IMAGES: Elaine Millar, M: 0414 258 E: Elaine Millar elaine@elainemillar.com Rob Hirst, M: 0416 011 838 E: Rob Hirst rob.hirst@tuckerseabrook.com
EDITOR NOTES The Australian hospitality industry has continued to suffer in 2021 due to COVID-19 and subsequent restrictions on movement and trade. The wine lists for the 2021 awards were submitted before lockdowns were reintroduced again and the full realisation of the impact and consequences of COVID-19 were felt by the industry. Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards recognises that a number of the lists submitted in 2021 may now look different today as a consequence of COVID-19. In another extraordinarily tough year for the Industry, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards team stands strong in its commitment to highlighting the craft and achievements of Australia’s sommeliers. This is support that, in many ways is needed now more than ever before. Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards was founded in 1994 by Rob and the late Judy Hirst, and Tucker Seabrook to recognise and reward the commitment, craft and talent of Australia’s sommeliers, as well as the investment by business owners, in building and maintaining great wine lists and the cellars behind them. |
Given the latest advice from Government, we have met with our partners Qantas Magazine / Travel Insider and our venue provider 12-Micron at Barangaroo and as a result we are happy to advise a revised date of Monday 29 November for this year’s event and awards ceremony.
This is wonderful news for all involved in the awards especially for our record number of entrants this year, who deserve well-earned recognition for what they have achieved and also, something to celebrate once they are able to!
Stay tuned for more details
Applications are now open for a new Court of Master Sommeliers Oceania Certified Exam in September and positions are filling fast! Click HERE to read the full prospectus.
A message from Brian K. Julyan MS
Founder and President, Court of Master Sommeliers Europe –
“Since our very first programs were held in Australia in 2008, enrolment numbers have continued to grow year on year. Accreditation from the Court of Master Sommeliers is globally recognised, and we’re proud to welcome students to our courses from throughout Australia and New Zealand in 2021.
For students who are considering taking the next step in their career by attaining professional accreditation or perhaps proceeding onto a higher level of accreditation from the Court of Master Sommeliers, I congratulate you on your commitment to your profession and wish you all the very best with your studies.”
Message from Franck Moreau MS
Oceania Master Sommelier –
“For students who wish to progress their hospitality career within the Oceania region; or for those who are considering exploring employment opportunities around the world, certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers offers a globally recognised qualification and demonstrates a level of practical and theoretical knowledge consistent with the high levels which are expected from the Court of Master Sommeliers.”