Australia’s wine scene has long captured global attention, and this year’s rankings of the most coveted Australian wines reveal that one brand is still leading the charge—Penfolds. A few years have passed since the last look at the country’s wine market, and while certain trends persist, there are notable shifts, particularly in Penfolds’ increasing dominance. This year’s list also sheds light on consumer preferences, with red wines, particularly those made from Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, holding sway.
In fact, all ten wines on this year’s most-wanted list are red, and only three grape varieties appear. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are the standout varietals, with a single Shiraz-Viognier blend offering a slight deviation from the trend. The trend underscores Australia’s strength in producing full-bodied, complex red wines, many of which come from the Penfolds estate.
Penfolds Grange Bin 95: A Cult Favorite
Topping the list is the ever-popular Penfolds Grange Bin 95, a wine that continues to lead Australian wine sales with its reputation and consistency. With an impressive aggregated score of 96 points from critics, Grange is a wine that has stood the test of time since its inception in the 1950s. Initially crafted by Max Schubert, the wine has achieved cult status and remains one of the world’s most coveted bottles, with prices averaging $601 today—up from $544 a decade ago.
More Penfolds: A Legacy of Quality
Penfolds’ other offerings also dominate the list, with the brand claiming seven out of the top ten spots. The Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet-Shiraz, affectionately known as “Baby Grange,” ranks second. First created in 1960, it has earned an aggregated score of 92 points and remains a relative bargain at $72. This price is slightly higher than it was ten years ago but still accessible compared to its counterparts.
The third spot goes to Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz, another long-standing classic from the estate. This wine, which first appeared commercially in 1957, garnered widespread acclaim in the 1990s. Today, it boasts a 94-point score and an accessible price of $97, up from $78 in 2015.
Penfolds’ Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon, released in 1993, takes the fourth position, offering great value at $77 despite a price increase from $59 in 2015. Meanwhile, the estate’s Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon, a more premium offering priced at $389, claims the fifth spot with a score of 94 points.
A Shift Toward Other Top Estates
While Penfolds continues to dominate, there are notable mentions from other esteemed estates. Henschke’s Hill of Grace Shiraz, ranked sixth, represents a significant departure from the Penfolds stronghold. With vines dating back over 160 years, Hill of Grace is considered one of Australia’s finest vineyards. This wine has earned an outstanding 96-point score and comes with a hefty price tag of $714, a sharp rise from $519 in 2015.
Following Henschke, Penfolds makes its return with the RWT – Bin 798 Shiraz, which sits in seventh place with a 94-point score and a price of $141. It is joined by Torbreck’s RunRig Shiraz-Viognier blend at number eight. Known for its complexity and age-worthy nature, this wine has earned a 94-point score and is priced at $214.
Other Noteworthy Wines
At number nine is the Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz, a wine rooted in the Barossa Valley with deep historical connections. Despite its impressive 93-point score, this wine is priced at a relatively affordable $84, down slightly from $87 a decade ago.
Finally, rounding out the list at number ten is Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz. Although the wine has evolved into a multi-region, multi-vineyard blend since 2019, it maintains its roots in the iconic Kalimna vineyard. With a score of 91 points, Bin 28 remains an affordable option at $32, a modest increase from $29 in 2015.
The Rise of Premium Aussie Wines
This year’s most wanted wines list highlights not just the enduring quality of Australian reds, but also the rising price points. While the wines remain accessible for now, the steady increase in prices suggests that Australian wines are gradually moving into the territory of ultra-premium bottles, similar to those found in Napa Valley. However, for now, there remains an opportunity to enjoy some of the best wines Australia has to offer without breaking the bank.
As Penfolds continues its reign, the future of Australia’s wine industry looks increasingly focused on red wines that blend tradition with modernity, offering wine lovers around the world a taste of the continent’s finest craftsmanship.
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