E. J. McDougall is proud to be named one of The Real Review Top Wineries of Australia 2026 — a recognition that carries particular meaning at this early stage of the estate's journey.
The annual list is regarded as an important benchmark of Australian fine wine, bringing together producers recognised for quality, consistency and regional expression. To be included among these wineries is both humbling and a strong affirmation of the philosophy behind E. J. McDougall.
The 2026 Collection
The recognition arrives alongside the release of the 2026 collection, featuring three limited-production wines:
- 2025 Margaret River Chardonnay
- 2024 McLaren Vale Old Vine Shiraz
- 2024 McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache
The collection has already attracted significant critical attention. Robert Parker Wine Advocate, through Erin Larkin, highlighted E. J. McDougall in her April 2026 Australian round-up, with the new releases receiving exceptional recognition, including 97-point scores.
Andrew Caillard MW of The Vintage Journal also awarded 96 points to the Grenache, 95+ points to the Chardonnay and 93 points to the Shiraz.
Together, these reviews reinforce what defines E. J. McDougall: wines built around provenance, structure and authentic regional character rather than volume or convention.
A Recognition of the Journey
For proprietor and oenologist Edward McDougall, the recognition is less about arrival and more about direction:
“This 2026 release represents everything we have worked towards: wines of authentic provenance, classical structure, and genuine regional expression. We are just beginning.”
Behind every bottle is a network of growers, viticulturists and craftspeople whose work is fundamental to the quality of the wines. Being named among Australia's Top Wineries is recognition of that collective effort as much as the E. J. McDougall name.
Taste the Top Wineries 2026
E. J. McDougall will be pouring the 2026 collection at selected The Real Review Top Wineries of Australia events across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, offering collectors, trade and wine lovers the opportunity to experience the wines alongside leading Australian producers.
Melbourne: Taste the Top Wineries — 18 July
Melbourne: Top Wineries of Australia Dinner — 21 July
Sydney: Taste the Top Wineries — 25 July
Sydney: Top Wineries of Australia Dinner — 28 July
Brisbane: Taste the Top Wineries — 1 August
For Collectors of Australian Fine Wine
E. J. McDougall wines are produced in strictly limited quantities and released by allocation. For collectors and fine wine enthusiasts seeking distinctive Australian wines with provenance and critical recognition, the 2026 collection represents an important chapter in the estate's development.
Register your interest: E. J. McDougall
For Australian trade and distribution enquiries, contact Christian Howard at Saint Wine: christian@saintwine.com.au.
E. J. McDougall Fine Wines is distributed nationally in Australia by Saint Wine.
Media and trade enquiries: wine@ejmcdougall.com
