People's Choice Award for 2025: Gibson Wines

The annual Halliday Wine Companion Awards recognise the best of the best from the Australian wine industry. The Halliday People's Choice Award honours the best winery experience from around the country – as voted by you.

It is with great excitement we announce that your 2025 People's Choice Award winner is Gibson Wines in the Barossa Valley. Gibson has claimed the top spot, after more than 9200 votes were cast across over 980 wineries.

Rob Gibson (AKA 'Gibbo' or 'The Dirtman'), founder and chief winemaker, says winning the People's Choice Award reflects a "grass-roots love of what we do at Gibson."

"Generosity is something we constantly look to express – through a comfort factor in each of our wines, and through the hospitality we offer at our cellar door," Rob says. "We are often reminded of the simple pleasures in being a family wine business – being able to put smiles on faces. After a lifetime in wine, this is still what drives me and everyone at Gibson Wines."

Rob Gibson, Anne Gibson and Adam Fiegert with Moose.

Gibson was established in 1996. Rob, who is a viticulturist, a geologist with over 50 years experience, and a winemaker, spent much of his career as a senior viticulturist for Penfolds. Now, alongside wife Anne and son Adam, the trio champion 'dirtborn' wines. 

Rob says while the Gibson team is small, it's mighty. "We strike a beautiful balance of passion and professionalism. Family members who are directly involved are supported by wine business professionals at the top of their game. It’s this blend that really drives our success. Authenticity and a down-to-earth character are core values we hold both in our wines and our people."

Gibson's home is in Light Pass, and Rob says the newly renovated cellar door is off the beaten track. "There’s a real sense of discovery when you are welcomed into the cosy, earthy ambiance of our recently refurbished space. Our hosts in cellar door are some of the best storytellers in the Barossa and do their utmost to leave guests with an essence of both Gibson and the region."

Gibson's newly renovated tasting room.

Be sure to book in for a tasting flight (walk-ins are always welcome), which takes a deep dive into Barossa shiraz. You can also take part in the 'Barossa shiraz by barrel' tasting, which takes you behind the scenes of small-batch winemaking and includes a private seated tasting, along with a shiraz tasting direct from the barrel.

If you're looking for a day of adventure, then book the 'Day with The Dirtman' experience. Rob will be your guide around the Barossa. Over six hours, you'll visit vineyards and vistas that are generally off limits to the public, gain a deeper understanding of vineyards, soil and wine, and experience some of the Barossa's best foodie spots.

Gibson's first wine was a tiny parcel of merlot from the Adelaide Hills. Since that first wine, the team at Gibson have come to focus on Barossa classics like shiraz, grenache and riesling, alongside "regional vanguards" like fiano and montepulciano. "We love a sense of prospecting, uncovering gems, and being open to new curiosities," says Rob.

For Rob, making wine in the Barossa is both a joy and a privilege. "The region’s diverse terroir and climate provide the perfect conditions for growing exceptional grapes. Our old vines tell a story that resonates around the world and I’m particularly passionate about the preservation of these antiquities. It’s also a region of resilience and quiet perseverance – the type of grit that only comes with over 175 years of winemaking history."

Flagship wine

2022 The Dirtman Shiraz

The Dirtman Shiraz is a masterfully crafted wine that marries the boldness of black fruits with the nuanced influences of spicy oak, vanilla bean, licorice and dark chocolate. Its generous flavours and enduring tannins make it a compelling choice for those seeking a rich and satisfying shiraz experience.

H. Tell us about The Dirtman Shiraz.
RG. 'The Dirtman' is my nickname from my days at Roseworthy College and as a geologist. It’s a wine that exemplifies the rich, bold flavours of the Barossa, with a finesse that allows it to age beautifully.

RRP $39 | Drink to 2033

For more information head to brownbrothers.com.au or visit the cellar door at 239 Milawa-Bobinawarrah Road, Milawa, Victoria.

 

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