Raising a Glass to Orange

A New Era of Excellence in Winemaking

To put this achievement into perspective, back in the 2005 edition of the Halliday Wine Companion, not a single 5-star winemaker hailed from Orange. Fast forward to today, and the region is not only home to a growing list of 5-star wineries but also boasts the Dark Horse Winemaker of the Year for 2025. Let’s dive into the success story that is redefining Australian winemaking.

ChaLou Wines: Leading the Pack with Dark Horse Winemaker of the Year

At the forefront of this remarkable achievement is ChaLou Wines, who took home the coveted Dark Horse Winemaker of the Year title. Nadja Wallington and Steve Mobbs, the passionate vignerons behind ChaLou, have been making waves in the industry since they launched their label in 2021. Their focus on crafting authentic, expressive wines from their Orange vineyard has now earned them one of the highest honours in Australian winemaking.

But ChaLou isn’t the only star in Orange’s constellation. The Dark Horse Winemaker of the Year shortlist also featured See Saw Wines and Amour Wines, further cementing Orange’s reputation as a region to watch. These wineries, like ChaLou, have demonstrated exceptional quality and innovation, setting new standards in the industry.

The Rise of 5-Star Wineries in Orange

Orange’s ascent in the winemaking world is further evidenced by the impressive number of 5-star wineries in the region. Here’s a look at the exceptional wineries that have earned this prestigious rating in the latest Halliday Wine Companion:

• Angullong Wines: Known for their vibrant and complex wines, Angullong has become a symbol of the region’s high standards.

• Mayfield Vineyard: This historic vineyard offers elegant wines that truly reflect the cool climate of Orange.

• Amour Wines: Already making waves as a Dark Horse contender, Amour continues to impress with their refined and expressive wines.

• ChaLou Wines: Our Dark Horse Winemaker of the Year, crafting standout Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.

• See Saw Wines: Their commitment to organic winemaking is paying off, with wines that are as sustainable as they are delicious.

• Bloodwood Wines: One of the pioneers of Orange winemaking, consistently producing wines with depth and character.

• Rowlee Wines: Specializing in small-batch, single-vineyard wines that capture the essence of Orange.

• Colmar Estate: Offering premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

• Printhie Wines: A name synonymous with quality, Printhie’s sparkling wines are particularly noteworthy.

• Ross Hill Wines: A family-owned winery producing award-winning, cool-climate wines.

• Hoosegg Wines: Known for their bold and distinctive wines, pushing the boundaries of what Orange can produce.

• Cook’s Lot Wines: Crafting wines that are a true reflection of the Orange terroir.

• Swinging Bridge Wines: Their innovative approach to winemaking continues to yield exciting results.

• Rikard Wines: A boutique winery focusing on small-batch production with outstanding results.

• Logan Wines: Blending tradition with innovation, Logan Wines offers a diverse and intriguing portfolio.

• Gilbert Wines: A multi-generational winery with a reputation for excellence in both red and white wines.

• Patina Wines: Though no wines were submitted in 2025, Patina retains its 5-star status, a testament to its consistent quality.

A Bright Future for Orange

As we celebrate these achievements, it’s clear that Orange is not just a rising star but a region firmly established among Australia’s elite winemaking areas. The recognition from the Halliday Wine Companion is not only a testament to the hard work of these talented vignerons but also a reflection of the unique terroir that makes Orange so special.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of fine wines, the Orange region offers a treasure trove of experiences. From visiting these acclaimed wineries to tasting their award-winning wines, there’s no better time to discover what makes Orange the new epicentre of Australian winemaking.

So next time you pour yourself a glass of Orange wine, know that you’re not just enjoying a drink—you’re partaking in a story of passion, innovation, and excellence that’s only just beginning. Cheers to the future of Orange!