NSW’s best wine list for 2026 has just been crowned in Sydney

As the famous Latin proverb goes, ‘in vino veritas’ – in wine, there is truth. And if the 2026 NSW Sommelier Wine List Awards are anything to go by, the truth is that New South Wales is producing some seriously exceptional vino.

Since 2019, the NSW Wine Industry Association has been celebrating the sommeliers, beverage managers and venue owners who showcase the diversity and quality of NSW wines through its Sommelier's Wine List Awards. 

From tiny neighbourhood wine bars and regional gems to bustling pubs and top-notch restaurants, an impressive number of venues from across the state submitted their curated wine lists for 2026. After much deliberation, a panel of judges whittled down the list to 44 finalists who truly embodied the spirit of NSW wine.

And on June 2, the winners were announced at NSW Parliament House. Hosted in partnership with Destination NSW, the awards shine a spotlight on venues that champion local producers and the state's diverse wine regions.

Taking out the coveted 2026 NSW Sommelier's Wine List of the Year was Shun Eto from Altitude Restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel. Says NSW Wine Industry Association President Mark Bourne, "Shun Eto at Altitude Restaurant has delivered a list that recognises and promotes great wines from NSW, and from producers large, small, unknown to the highly regarded."

2026 NSW Sommelier Wine List Awards Winners:

NSW Sommelier's Wine List of the Year
Shun Eto, Altitude Restaurant

Best NSW Wine List in a Sydney Venue (>60 seats)
Shun Eto, Altitude Restaurant

Best NSW Wine List in a Sydney Venue (<60 seats)
Lisa Guenther-Strauss, The Art Syndicate Surry Hills

Best NSW Wine List in a Regional NSW Venue (>60 seats)
Louella Mathews, Bar NSW at The Lookout

Best NSW Wine List in a Regional NSW Venue (<60 seats)
Elizabeth Wittig, Summer St Wine Room

Best NSW Wine List in a Pub or Club
Lukas Thodas, The Grand Hotel Newcastle

Best NSW Wine List by a Function and Event Venue
Melissa Moore, Sydney Seafood School

NSW Wine President's Award for Outstanding Support of the NSW Wine Industry
Lola Lucassen, The Library Bar

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