Lightfoot Wines has claimed Best Chardonnay at the 2025 Gippsland Wine Show for its 2024 Myrtle Point Chardonnay — a wine that exemplifies the purity, balance and quiet confidence driving Chardonnay’s rise alongside Pinot Noir as a defining variety for Gippsland.
Grown on the family’s Myrtle Point Vineyard overlooking the Mitchell River Valley, the wine reflects the rare terra rossa over limestone soils of East Gippsland, producing a Chardonnay of precision, freshness and understated power. The trophy highlights Lightfoot’s continued focus on crafting wines that capture the essence of their site and season.
Judging for the 2025 Gippsland Wine Show took place on October 5 and 6 at Cape Paterson Surf Lifesaving Club, where 144 wines from across the region were assessed by an experienced panel led by Julian Grounds (Stonier Wines), alongside Jane Faulkner (Halliday Wine Companion) and Rohan Smith (Medhurst Wines). Winners were announced at the awards night on October 16, attended by producers, judges and guests from across
the region.
“The depth of quality on display is a confirmation that Gippsland is a great place to grow grapes and make wine,” Rob Lightfoot, general manager of Lightfoot Wines and incoming president of Wine Gippsland, said.
“Despite broader industry challenges, we have every reason to be confident about the future ahead. Gippsland producers should be proud of the contribution they make — not just to our local economy, but to the culture of food and wine across Victoria and beyond.”
The judges praised the breadth and consistency of wines entered this year, noting the growing strength of Gippsland’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir classes and the distinctive sense of place that continues to define the region’s producers.
“Every year, Gippsland wines reveal more confidence and individuality,” chair of judges, Julian Grounds, said.
“There’s a real clarity of expression emerging — wines that are thoughtful, balanced and unmistakably Gippsland.”
Other major awards included Dirty Three Wines taking Best Wine of Show for their 2024 Magic Dirt Pinot Noir, while Purple Hen Wines was named Most Successful Exhibitor.
Now in its 22nd year, the Gippsland Wine Show continues to champion the craftsmanship, collaboration and diversity that underpin this dynamic cool-climate region — from the coastal vineyards of the south to the sun-drenched valleys of the east. The results reflect a region whose wines are increasingly recognised for their elegance, purity and unmistakable character.
