An international awards showcase for the world’s best vineyards will take place in Margaret River this year alongside the Pair’d festival.
The State Government secured the World’s 50 Best Vineyards 2025 awards to be held on November 19.
The awards celebrate outstanding vineyards around the world which combine “exceptional wine, food and visitor experiences” and would wrap in an official function, a Government spokesperson said.
It was hoped “an enormous international media platform for the South West” would result, replicating in part the overseas promotion the region secured through the past Gourmet Escape.
The awards were part of the “50 Best” global brand.
Last year’s awards did not include any local vineyards, with just two Australian locations featured in the top 50. It was the first time they would be held in Australia.
The top 2024 prize was taken out by Bogedas de los Herederos del Marques de Riscal in Rioja, Spain.
Tourism Minister Reece Whitby described this week’s news as “a proud moment for WA”.
“(It) reflects our growing global profile as a leader in premium tourism and hospitality offerings,” he said.
“The Margaret River region’s international reputation for outstanding wine, food and natural beauty makes it the ideal setting for this prestigious global event.
“Hosting these awards is a strong vote of confidence in our tourism industry and highlights the beauty of our regional destinations.”
Margaret River-Busselton Tourism Association chief executive Sharna Kearney applauded the move as “a fantastic achievement”.
She said the event spotlight would shine valuable attention on the region and the mix of food, wine and natural experiences already promoted through Pair’d.
Margaret River Wine Association chief executive Amanda Whiteland said she was grateful for the Government and Tourism WA support.
“This is a major win for our local community,” she said.
“It will shine an international spotlight on our wine quality, stunning cellar doors, and unique wine tourism experiences while delivering a real boost to local businesses across hospitality, accommodation, transport and retail.
“With Pair’d Margaret River returning in the same week, we’re set for a spectacular showcase of everything our region has to offer.”
Pair’d itself would return in November as a four-day offering integrating gourmet wine and food with music, culminating in a street festival.
The vineyards award winner would be determined by votes from more than 700 members of the 50 World’s Best Vineyards Academy which the group described online as “influential wine and travel experts and sommeliers, who submit their nominations based on their best vineyard experience during the voting period”.
Tourism WA managing director Anneke Brown said her agency looked forward to welcoming those industry leaders and enthusiasts from around the world for the sake of showcasing the region.
