We’ve long asked the question, ‘How do we categorise the outliers?’ Of the many wines that pass over the desks of the Halliday Tasting Team, there are quite a few that don’t find a place in a category that defines them well. Enter, Wildcard.
Wildcard is our effort to best advocate for the lesser known; whether it be variety, technique, style or region, there is room for these wines here.
This was the category that sparked the liveliest conversation at judging and, though all are worthy of taking home the inaugural award, a special mention is reserved for Anim Wine, whose Negra Bianco quite nearly tied with the winner. Of the winning wine – the Yellow NV from Lethbridge Wines – Philip Rich says that this is the winemaker’s homage to Vin Jaune from the Jura, and it's a delicious one at that. Dry, textured, gently oxidative and nutty, finishing saline and long.’
For those looking to try something a little left of centre, pay great attention to this short list of wildcard wines.
2026 Wildcard of the Year
96 points | Price when tasted $70
