Australia’s top wines are about to be uncorked in the nation’s capital, as the inaugural National Wine Festival comes to Canberra this month. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the National Wine Show of Australia, the four-day festival brings together the country’s finest wines, brightest minds in winemaking, as well as a packed program of tastings, dinners and masterclasses.
Backed by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society and held annually in Canberra, the National Wine Show is regarded as the most important event of its kind in the country. Only wines that have already earned gold or silver medals at regional or capital city wine shows are eligible to compete, and this year, a record over 1,000 entries have been judged to determine Australia’s top drops.
Now, for the first time in its five-decade history, the broader public has the chance to experience the wines and wisdom behind the awards, as the National Wine Festival opens its doors from 13–15 June. Festival chair Andy Gregory says the event represents a major step forward for the industry and the city.
“The idea was to take this incredible wine show, a real pinnacle of the industry, and make it more accessible. We wanted to share the quality, innovation and the people behind Australia’s best wines,” he says.
That means not only tasting the wines, including all the award-winners and more than 5,000 bottles in total, but learning directly from the experts who make them. Thirty-five masterclasses will be held across the three days, led by some of the most respected names in wine.
“People will be able to learn directly from the best minds in Australian wine,” Gregory says. “These are the people shaping the future of the industry, from climate-resilient varieties to emerging styles that reflect how tastes are changing. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.”
Beyond the palate, the National Wine Festival is also shaping up as a boost for the city’s economy and reputation. With thousands of bottles arriving for the show, and increased interstate visitation on the cards, accommodation bookings are already spiking. Gregory believes the event could grow into a signature Canberra fixture on the national calendar.
“Canberra has long been the home of the National Wine Show, and now it’s the home of the National Wine Festival too,” he says. “There’s an opportunity here to create something truly iconic, something that draws visitors in, supports our local wine regions and puts the capital at the centre of Australia’s wine conversation.”
With its blend of prestige, access and education, the festival is as much a celebration of the Australian wine community as it is a showcase. For Canberrans, it’s a rare chance to explore the best of the country’s winemaking right here at home.
And for those still on the fence? Gregory puts it simply: “You won’t find this many exceptional wines, or this much expertise, in one place anywhere else.”
There’s great value across many of the events at the National Wine Festival. Tickets are available now at: nationalwinefestival.iwannaticket.com.au