4 June 2025, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia — Today, E. J. McDougall is proud to announce that their 2023 McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache and 2023 McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz have received outstanding reviews and high scores in the esteemed Halliday Wine Companion, Australia’s leading wine review platform. These accolades from renowned critic Marcus Ellis underscore E. J. McDougall’s dedication to producing exceptional quality wines that exemplify the unique terroir of the McLaren Vale region.

The 2023 McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache was awarded an impressive 95 points, celebrated for its modern approach and concentrated expression. Marcus Ellis praised the wine's complexity and balance, highlighting its soulful old-vine fruit expression. Ellis closes off one of his reviews by saying, “This is a project to watch.”

Further raising the bar, the 2023 McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz received a remarkable 96 points. This wine was commended for its rich, dark fruit profile, velvety tannins, and expressive spice notes. Ellis described it as a wine that "shines in its spicy, mineral and subtly floral detail," noting its depth, intensity, and potential to evolve beautifully over time.

A Word from the Proprietor

"We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive such high praise from the Halliday Wine Companion," said Proprietor & Oenologist Edward (Eddie) J. McDougall. "These scores are a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, from our vineyard partners who nurture the old vines to the winemakers who craft each bottle with care. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our efforts recognised by such a credible and respected authority."

The Halliday Wine Companion, established by respected wine critic James Halliday and his team, is considered the definitive guide to Australian wine. Its comprehensive reviews and ratings provide invaluable information for both consumers and industry professionals, making these accolades particularly significant.

About E. J. McDougall

E. J. McDougall, a winemaker and négociant-éleveur, crafts wines sourced from McLaren Vale, Margaret River, and with impending expansion into Tasmania. The cornerstone of E. J. McDougall’s endeavours is a profound dedication to exhibiting the pre-eminent expressions of Australian viticulture. The integrity of their winemaking is underpinned by an unwavering commitment to enduring relationships with their grower partners.

Contact Information

For comprehensive details about E. J. McDougall wines and to request an allocation of featured wines, kindly visit the official website at www.ejmcdougall.com or email wine@ejmcdougall.com.