Up to the Challenge

The highest-pointed Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon in Australia were last night crowned for the 2023 James Halliday Australian Chardonnay and Cabernet Challenge.

Evans & Tate 2021 Redbrook Estate Chardonnay from Margaret River and Forest Hill Vineyard 2022 Block 5 Cabernet Sauvignon from Great Southern were crowned trophy winners.

They were both rated 97 points from a total of 615 entries across 34 Australian wine regions.

The Challenge combines the two varieties to be judged simultaneously. This year, judging took place at Hubert Estate in the Yarra Valley.

Chair of judges Adam Wadewitz says, “It was great to lead such a talented team once again for the 2023 James Halliday Australian Chardonnay and Cabernet Challenge.

“The judges found some real gems that highlight the best examples of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon from across Australia.

“It was exciting to be judging some of the cooler vintages and noting that many of the awarded wines not only look good now but will reward those that can keep them in their cellar long enough.”

Challenge Patron James Halliday AM says, “Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are an unlikely couple brought together because each is respected throughout the world of wine through the prism of fellow winemakers, of distributors and retailers, of collectors, of educators, and all those who simply enjoy a glass of great wine.”

Chardonnay Challenge Regional Winners

Cabernet Challenge Regional Winners

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