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Presented by Wine AustraliaJoin us for an engaging event that brings together wine professionals, judges, producers, and enthusiasts. The afternoon will feature latest research with real world applications, insightful wine tastings, industry commentary and opportunities for meaningful conversation with key figures shaping the future of Australian wine.
Session 1: Time and Place: A Taste of Provenance
Three years after introducing the Provenance Award, AAVWS continues to build on its commitment to recognising wines with a strong sense of place and the ability to evolve over time. Established in 2023 following the success of older wines entered across the previous four shows, the award moved beyond celebrating a single museum wine to assessing three vintages of the same wine, from the same vineyard, spanning ten years.
This guided discussion and tasting will explore how place, season and people shape what ends up in the glass, revealing how provenance influences character, consistency, expression, identity and ageability.
Session 2: Under Our Nose: Merbein’s Forgotten Grapes and Australia’s Wine Future
Sometimes looking back is the best inspiration to push forward. Join us in celebrating the remarkable legacy of the Merbein CSIRO Research Station and its enduring influence on Australian wine. From its beginnings in 1920 through decades of nationally significant viticultural research, Merbein helped shape climate-conscious grape growing, wine innovation and regional identity. This seminar will explore the station’s pioneering work in grapevine breeding, rootstocks, mechanisation and climate-adapted varieties, including celebrated examples such as Taminga and Tarrango, alongside the hidden potential of the CSIRO germplasm collection. Guests will hear how a century of research based in North West Victoria continues to inform the future of Australian wine, with Wine Australia now helping to revive and promote promising varieties for a changing climate and evolving wine community. The session will be accompanied by a curated tasting of wines that connect Merbein’s past achievements with the next generation of Australian wine.
Session 3: What does it take to get noticed?
In a crowded and rapidly changing wine market, producing a great wine is only part of the challenge. This lively panel discussion brings together voices from media, hospitality and retail to explore what makes a wine and its brand cut through.
From creating a compelling story and building a distinctive visual identity to making meaningful industry connections, our panellists will share what catches their attention and what makes them want to know more. Discover how wines earn editorial coverage, gain traction online, secure a place on a restaurant wine list and find space on the shelves of a bottle shop. The session will also examine common mistakes, the importance of relationships and consistency, and how smaller and emerging producers can stand out without the resources of a major brand. Expect practical insights, honest perspectives and useful advice for getting your wine in front of the right people and turning initial attention into lasting recognition.
Tickets include a curated selection of wine tastings accompanied by light refreshments.
Spaces are limited. Don’t miss this chance to learn, taste, and connect with the innovators behind Australia’s alternative wine scene.
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Event venue
Powerhouse Place, Hugh King Drive, Mildura, Australia
Tickets
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