But there was more to this year than disease and strife. Big deals were done, innovations launched, and progress towards sustainability was made.
To read the roundup of the most important stories of the year, published in PKN's Nov-Dec 2020 issue, click here.
Australian Vintage has secured a $128 million debt refinancing through to March 2028, with an option to extend a further year to 2029, as the McGuigan wines owner reports a significant second-half cash turnaround and upgraded sales momentum heading into FY27.
Endeavour Group has used its first investor day since demerging from Woolworths to lay out a three-year transformation plan targeting $300 million in cost savings, a scaled-back dividend payout, and the exit of most of its winery and vineyard portfolio.
The winners of the 2026 International Wine Challenge (IWC) have been selected, with Australia performing incredibly well. Beresford Estate and Penfolds were singled out, receiving the top International Trophy in the Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon categories respectively.
