A $25 bottle of Australian wine has just been crowned the world’s best Shiraz, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy an award-winning drop.
The surprise winner was the 2023 Beresford Classic Shiraz from South Australia’s McLaren Vale, which took out the coveted International Syrah Trophy at the 2026 International Wine Challenge (IWC) with 97 points.
For wine lovers, the victory is particularly remarkable given the company it kept.
The Beresford Classic Shiraz outperformed a number of premium Australian wines, including trophy-winning bottles from acclaimed Tasmanian labels.
And the “powerhouse” red available at Dan Murphy’s, BWS and independent retailers for a fraction of the price of other entrants.
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On points, the $25 bottle scored higher in its respective category than far more expensive drops like Penfolds Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon.
The white won the International Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy with 96 points, but it costs about $119.
The 2023 Beresford Classic Shiraz took out the coveted International Syrah Trophy at the 2026 International Wine Challenge.
(Beresford Estate)
Tolpuddle Chardonnay also scored 96 points to be crowned the Tasmanian Chardonnay Trophy and Australian White Trophy, but it will set you back about $210.
The Beresford Estate bottle was the highest-scoring Australian trophy winner and among the most decorated, also taking the trophies for South Australian Shiraz, Australian Shiraz, and Australian Red.
The annual International Wine Challenge is regarded as one of the wine industry’s most respected competitions, with wines judged blind by international tasting panels before being re-tasted multiple times to confirm results.
Natalie Cleghorn, head winemaker on the 70-acre vineyard at Beresford Estate, said the result highlighted the quality coming out of the McLaren Vale region.
“This result is a genuine reflection of what McLaren Vale is capable of,” she said.
“When you let the fruit and the site do the talking, the quality speaks for itself.
What does the world’s best Shiraz taste like?
According to tasting notes, the wine opens with aromas of blueberry and plum, alongside subtle floral notes and spice.
On the palate, drinkers can expect flavours of red cherry, plum, dried fruit, eucalyptus and savoury spice, balanced by bright acidity and fine tannins.
Judges at the International Wine Challenge described the Shiraz as “powerful yet beautifully composed”, praising its balance and structure.
Everyday Aussies have also praised the red, describing it as being of “exceptional quality”.
“Are you serious? This is only $25? Delicious,” one said.
“Tastes better than the $100 Penfolds wine, to be honest.”
“Fruit, balance, softness. My new go-to,” another added.
With temperatures dropping across much of Australia, richer red wines are returning to dinner tables and weekend gatherings.
The versatile Shiraz pairs well with slow-cooked lamb, roast beef, hearty pasta dishes and aged cheeses, making it an easy option for winter entertaining.
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