Pop a cork on your fave bottle, folks: we Victorians have good reason to celebrate. Forbes has just announced its 2025 list of the World's 50 Best Wineries – and, yep, one of our very own has made the cut (and ranked high!). Drumroll, please...
Let's raise a glass for Brown Brothers! The cherished winery secured 12th place on the annual list after earning 30 points from a global panel of trusted wine experts. Whether you're fond of the Victorian producer's super popular prosecco or are yet to enjoy a tour around its beautiful vineyard in the heart of the King Valley, consider this news a good nudge to go and reacquaint your vino-loving self with the local brand.
Founded in 1889, Brown Brothers has operated from its historic Milawa site for more than 136 years. To this day it remains under the stewardship of the Brown family, and is a proud founding member of Australia’s First Families of Wine, a collective known for its focus on heritage, authenticity and commitment to excellent quality.
“We are incredibly honoured to be internationally recognised by such a prestigious program,” says Brown Brothers winemaker and fourth generation Brown family member, Katherine Brown. “This award is a testament to our dedication for outstanding winemaking and the incredible experiences we create for our visitors.”
The winery’s solid rep hasn't just been shaped by award-winning wines but also by its courageous experimentation and training of future industry leaders.
“We’re led by a philosophy that knowledge shared strengthens the industry as a whole,” shares Brown. “Many of Brown Brothers’ past winemakers and oenologists have gone on to lead some of the world’s most respected wineries, including Rick Kinzbrunner (Owner and Winemaker, Giaconda), Trina Smith (Mumm Terroir Pacific Winemaker, Pernod Ricard) and Cate Looney (Australian Women in Wine, Australian Winemaker of the Year 2020).”
At the cellar door, which is open daily, visitors can taste fan favourites such as the Patricia pinot noir, chardonnay brut 2018 and the nation's top-selling prosecco, plus more creative offerings like moscato strawberries and cream and cienna salted caramel. The winery also offers a range of immersive experiences – from wine-blending workshops to kitchen garden tours and seasonal lunch events – so go ahead and make a day of it!
You can discover more about Brown Brothers at the website. And to read more on Forbes' World's 50 Best Wineries list, go here.
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