Yarra Valley’s Oakridge Wines won the Champion Victorian Winery award on Friday 7 November, cementing its reputation as a leader in Victorian winemaking since its founding in 1978.
Oakridge’s success highlights the strength and history of Victorian wine, joined in the major Victorian categories by Best Victorian Chardonnay winner Sexton Vineyard for its 2024 Giant Steps Chardonnay and Best Victorian Shiraz winner Glenlofty Estate for its 2024 Ridge Block Shiraz.
Oakridge has now claimed the top honour in three of the past four years – 2022, 2024, and 2025.
In addition, other Victorian winners included Tahbilk Winery near Nagambie, which took out the award for Best Single Varietal White.
The industry powers more than 23,000 jobs across grape growing, winemaking, logistics, exports, hospitality and retail.
The government and industry unveiled the new Victorian Wine Strategy this year, which will guide sustainable growth for the industry ahead, including workforce development, improving the visitor experience, innovation and sustainability of the industry, and expanding domestic and international trade.
The government recently funded extension services through Wine Victoria in collaboration with Wine Australia.
To explore the new Victorian Wine Strategy, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/crops-and-horticulture/wine-and-grapes/victorian-wine-strategy
