Another strong result for our Smith Vineyard Chardonnay, with our 2024 Smith Vineyard Chardonnay awarded the Beechworth Regional Trophy at the 2026 James Halliday Australian Chardonnay & Cabernet Challenge (JHCCC).
The annual Challenge celebrates the diversity and quality of Australian Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, bringing together wines from regions across the country. The regional trophies recognise outstanding wines scoring 95 points or above.
For our vigneron Mark Walpole, the result is another welcome recognition of the Smith Vineyard, planted in 1978 and regarded as the oldest remaining vineyard in Beechworth. The site continues to demonstrate its potential for Chardonnay of depth, character and finesse, shaped by the region’s cool climate and Mark’s long-standing commitment to careful viticulture. The award adds to an impressive run of recognition for this Fighting Gully Road Chardonnay, following the 2023 Smith Vineyard Chardonnay’s 98-point score and White Wine of the Year accolade at The Real Review’s Top Wineries of Australia 2026 Awards.
You can register your interest in the 2024 Smith Vineyard Chardonnay, ahead of its release, right here.
You can view the full results of the JHCCC on their website here.