The Great Australian Shiraz Challenge has become Australia’s most pre-eminent, single class wine competition and in 2024, celebrates its 30th anniversary.
The Challenge, Chaired by Tahbilk Group Director, Alister Purbrick is a unique opportunity for Australia’s premier red Winemakers to showcase their Shiraz, benchmark winemaking and regional points of differences and assist with reinforcing the reputation of the variety as a National and International wine icon.
Nationally, Shiraz plantings are considerably more than any other red varietal, the challenge for Australian Winemakers is to effectively promote this iconic variety. Over the past 30 years, The Great Australian Shiraz Challenge has played an important role by raising industry, press and consumer awareness both Nationally and Internationally.
The 2024 Challenge continues the spectacular evolution of the event over the last 30 years; wines entered are classed and tasted based on climate and regional points of difference, this ensures all entries are judged fairly and objectively. In 2016, individual State based trophies and the best Shiraz over 5 years old were introduced; in 2021, the Best Organic Shiraz Trophy acknowledged Winemakers commitment to this category and in 2022, a Sparkling Shiraz class was introduced, further enhancing the broad appeal of the Challenge.
“I commend the Saint Martin, 2024 Great Australian Shiraz Challenge, to you as one of Australia’s most prestigious and highly respected wine awards. The event has also played an important role in creating considerable consumer awareness in this iconic Australian grape variety. I encourage you to take up the challenge and enter one or more of your Shiraz in this year’s event.”
Alister Purbrick
Chairman, Great Australian Shiraz Challenge
Testimonials
Smallwater Estate
2024 Best of Show Trophy
When the call came through to let me know Smallwater Estate had won the top award at the 30th anniversary of the Great Australian Shiraz Challenge, I was in the tractor. It didn’t truly sink in until I finished my work and had time to digest the conversation.
I’ve only entered my Shiraz a few times over the years in this prestigious competition, but I had a feeling we might be in the running, especially after our 2022 Shiraz received several trophies at national shows last year.
Geographe is starting to gain recognition as a region that consistently produces exceptional Shiraz along with many other varieties. Winning this award feels like letting the best-kept secret out of the bag. Our wineries stretch from the coastal plain to the escarpment, with higher altitudes that really showcase the diversity of our region.
I’m incredibly fortunate to work with two amazing winemakers, Bruce Dukes and Remi Guise. Their expertise and artistry consistently bring out the best in our fruit, and they provide invaluable advice on oak selection to achieve the style I envision.
This award is not just a personal achievement; it’s for everyone involved in producing Smallwater Estate wines. It’s a tough climate out there for all wineries, and receiving accolades from a major show like the Great Australian Shiraz Challenge renews my enthusiasm. I hope it also boosts our sales, bringing greater exposure to Smallwater Estate.
Thank you for celebrating this journey with me!
Cheers, John Small and Team Smallwater Estate
