E. J. McDougall Earns Platinum & Gold at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards

Some recognitions carry significance far beyond the medal itself.

At the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, almost 17,000 wines from 58 countries were assessed through rigorous blind judging by 245 leading wine professionals. Among the results, E. J. McDougall, Fine Wines of Australia, is honoured with two significant awards.

Two Wines, Two Major International Recognitions

Platinum — 97 Points
2024 E. J. McDougall McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz

Gold — 95 Points
2025 E. J. McDougall Margaret River Chardonnay

These results represent more than recognition for two individual wines. They reflect the dedication of our growers, the character of Australia's great wine regions, and the increasing international appreciation of Australian fine wine.

The 2026 Decanter results also demonstrate the remarkable breadth of Australian wine excellence, with highly recognised wines emerging from regions including Hunter Valley, Eden Valley, Tasmania, Margaret River and Frankland River.

For Australia, the message is increasingly clear: the country's fine wine story is no longer simply about potential. It is a story of proven quality, regional character and growing global recognition.

Why This Matters to Wine Collectors

For wine collectors, connoisseurs and fine wine professionals, independent recognition from respected international competitions can provide a useful reference when discovering wines with strong provenance and long-term appeal.

The combination of regional identity, vineyard provenance and critical recognition is particularly meaningful for collectors seeking Australian wines that demonstrate both quality and a distinctive sense of place.

A Commitment to Australian Fine Wine

We are grateful to the Decanter judging panels and Co-Chairs for their commitment to rigorous assessment, and to everyone who continues to champion Australian wine around the world.

As custodians of Fine Wines of Australia, E. J. McDougall remains committed to a négociant-éleveur philosophy grounded in provenance, patience and respect for the vineyards behind each wine.

The journey continues—with humility, passion and a deep respect for what makes Australian fine wine exceptional.

FAQs

What did E. J. McDougall win at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards?

E. J. McDougall received Platinum with 97 points for the 2024 McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz and Gold with 95 points for the 2025 Margaret River Chardonnay.

Which E. J. McDougall wine received 97 points?

The 2024 E. J. McDougall McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz received a Platinum medal and 97 points at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards.

Which E. J. McDougall wine received Gold?

The 2025 E. J. McDougall Margaret River Chardonnay received a Gold medal with 95 points.

Why are Decanter World Wine Awards results important for collectors?

The Decanter World Wine Awards use blind judging by experienced wine professionals. Recognition can therefore provide collectors and connoisseurs with an independent reference when evaluating wines from established and emerging fine-wine regions.

What makes E. J. McDougall different?

E. J. McDougall follows a négociant-éleveur philosophy, working with vineyard provenance and growers to create distinctive Australian fine wines that express the character of their regions.

What awards did E. J. McDougall receive at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards?

E. J. McDougall received Platinum with 97 points for its 2024 McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz and Gold with 95 points for its 2025 Margaret River Chardonnay at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, highlighting the quality and regional character of Australian fine wine.