Here’s a toast to something new! This winter, Australia is getting a brand-new national wine festival that’s basically everything your grape-est dreams are made of. The four-day fest will not only celebrate the very best of our nation’s viticulture, but will raise a glass to the 50th anniversary of the National Wine Show of Australia – one of the country’s most prestigious wine competitions. Who’s thirsty?
More than 900 award-winning Aussie wines will be up for tasting across three days from June 13 to 15 at the historic Hyatt Hotel in Canberra. You’re bound to discover plenty of hidden gems, plus you’ll have the rare chance to sample every single entrant in the 2025 National Wine Show – with the 23 winners crowned at a grand presentation dinner at Parliament House on June 12.
Alongside tastings, the National Wine Festival will serve up a juicy lineup of masterclasses and panels. Seasoned sippers can learn about what Australia’s top wine judges look for in an award-winning bottle or examine the characteristics that earned this year’s winners the nation’s top gongs. Meanwhile, those new to the world of wine can join a beginner-friendly tasting or be guided through Australia’s diverse wine regions.
More into sipping than swirling? The festival is also putting on themed dining experiences, including a fancy 50th anniversary dinner featuring a seasonal multi-course menu paired with award-winning wines – from rare vintages to contemporary classics.
The National Wine Festival really is your one-stop shop for all of Australia’s best wines. You can nab tickets to the inaugural festival here – and since you’ll be sampling a lot of vino, we suggest saving yourself a room at one of Canberra’s best hotels before they all book out.