MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – June 18, 2025 – E. J. McDougall is proud to announce that its McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache 2023 has been awarded a prestigious Gold Medal and an outstanding 96 points at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2025. This esteemed competition is recognised as the largest and most influential wine competition globally.

The Decanter World Wine Awards, renowned for its rigorous judging process and international panel of experts, evaluated over 17,000 wines from across the globe. The exceptional performance of the McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache 2023 underscores E. J. McDougall’s commitment to producing world-class wines that showcase the unique terroir of the McLaren Vale region, more specifically the Grand Cru sites of Blewitt Springs.

"We are absolutely thrilled with this incredible recognition from the Decanter World Wine Awards," said Edward (Eddie) McDougall, Proprietor and Oenologist. "The McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache 2023 is a true reflection of our dedication to quality and our passion for crafting wines that express the rich heritage of Australian fine wine. This award is dedicated to the Australian winemaking community, who I know are enduring a very challenging economic environment, but it is global awards like this that allow not only us to celebrate but all Australian winemakers as a whole to enjoy a taste of success. Our industry needs this more than ever, and we are honoured to represent our country on the world stage."

The McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache 2023 is celebrated for its perfumed aromas of freshly picked red currants, garden-cut herbs, and crushed white peppercorns energise the nose. The palate is weightlessly intense, perfectly balancing the traditionally riper notes of a Grand Cru style Grenache from the sandier soils of Blewitt Springs, McLaren Vale. Deep concentrations of flavours are well woven with sherbet-like acidity, giving the wine life, enthusiasm, and potential for cellaring through to 2043. This gold medal win further solidifies E. J. McDougall Wines' position as a leading producer of premium Australian wines on the international stage.

About E. J. McDougall Wines

E. J. McDougall is an Australian producer of distinction, driven by a vision to craft exceptional wines that authentically express their origins. Our philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the land and the enduring relationships we cultivate with our dedicated vineyard owners. These partnerships are the cornerstone of our success, ensuring access to the finest fruit from McLaren Vale's most esteemed sites.

At the heart of E. J. McDougall is a commitment to quality and innovation, guided by the expertise of our talented team. Our wines are a testament to the collaborative spirit of Winemaker Lilian Carter, whose meticulous approach brings out the nuanced characteristics of each varietal, and Oenologist Edward (Eddie) McDougall, who oversees the overarching style and strategic direction, ensuring every bottle reflects our unwavering pursuit of excellence. We aspire to create wines that captivate the senses and tell a story of provenance, passion, and the unique spirit of Australian winemaking.

About Edward McDougall

Edward McDougall, an oenologist and CEO with two decades of global winemaking experience (Vietti, Mas de Daumas Gassac, Deep Woods Estate, Giant Steps, Silver Heights, Gladstone Vineyard), founded The Flying Winemaker in 2010, focusing on Australian and New Zealand wines. In 2024, he launched the E. J. McDougall fine wine collection. He also established the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards (2023), the world's largest Chinese wine ecosystem. Beyond wine, McDougall is an entrepreneur in television, F&B, Scotch whisky, and agritech, holding board positions at the Australian Chamber of Commerce, Macau Rugby Union, and Entrepreneurs Organisation’s Greater Bay Area Chapter.

About the Decanter

Decanter is a globally renowned wine publication, first launched in London in 1975. Over nearly five decades, it has established itself as a leading authority on wine, offering in-depth articles, tasting notes, regional profiles, and expert opinions to both trade professionals and passionate consumers. Its influence extends far beyond its print pages through its robust online presence and, most notably, the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA). Decanter's commitment to independent, authoritative wine journalism has solidified its position as a trusted and influential voice on the world wine stage, guiding purchasing decisions and shaping perceptions across the industry.

Contact:

Mark Law

Business Manager & Sommelier

wine@ejmcdougall.com

+61 432 127 027

www.ejmcdougall.com