Beechworth vigneron Mark Walpole has been shortlisted for one of Australian wine’s highest individual honours, named among the finalists for Winemaker of the Year in the forthcoming 2027 Halliday Wine Companion Awards.
The recognition places Walpole alongside some of the country’s most respected wine producers and further cements his reputation as one of Australia’s most influential wine figures. While many winemakers focus solely on the winemaking, Walpole’s distinction lies in the fact that he is a true vigneron – both the viticulturist who grows the fruit and winemaking, where he crafts the finished wines. At Fighting Gully Road, every stage of production, from vineyard management through to bottling, is guided by Walpole’s hands-on approach.
Established in 1997, Fighting Gully Road has become one of Beechworth’s most highly regarded wine producers, known for its commitment to site expression, alternative varieties and meticulous vineyard management. Over nearly three decades, Walpole has earned widespread respect for his pioneering work with varieties including aglianico, sangiovese, tempranillo, verdicchio, petit arvine, cornalin, and gros manseng, alongside benchmark expressions of chardonnay and syrah.
This latest nomination follows Walpole’s recognition as Viticulturist of the Year in the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion Awards. In awarding the title, Halliday Wine Companion described Walpole as a “viticulturist’s viticulturist”, recognising his relentless curiosity, experimentation and dedication to improving both vineyard and wine quality. The award acknowledged not only his work at Fighting Gully Road, but also his broader influence on viticulture throughout North East Victoria and beyond.
The Halliday Wine Companion is Australia’s most influential wine guide. First published by renowned wine critic, author and vigneron James Halliday in 1986, the annual guide has become the definitive reference for Australian wine consumers, collectors and trade professionals. Since 2000, it has been published under the Halliday Wine Companion name, reviewing thousands of wines annually and recognising excellence through its prestigious awards program.
Named after Halliday himself, one of the most significant figures in Australian wine history, the Companion has helped shape the careers of many of the country’s leading wineries and winemakers over the past four decades. Halliday’s contribution to Australian wine extends beyond publishing, having co-founded Brokenwood in the Hunter Valley and later established Coldstream Hills in the Yarra Valley.
The 2027 Halliday Winemaker of the Year shortlist includes:
• Mark Walpole – Fighting Gully Road, Beechworth, Victoria
• [Nominee TBC]
• [Nominee TBC]
• [Nominee TBC]
• [Nominee TBC]
• [Nominee TBC]
• [Nominee TBC]
Winners of the Halliday Wine Companion Awards will be announced later this year on August 19.
For Walpole, however, the nomination is perhaps most significant because it recognises the complete scope of his work. As both grower and maker, his wines are a direct reflection of decades spent understanding the soils, climate and vineyard sites of North East Victoria. It is a rare combination in modern Australian wine, and one that continues to define Fighting Gully Road’s reputation for authenticity, regional character and quality.
