The 2018 Langton’s Classification VII has been released and includes a first-ever Heritage Five, celebrating Australia’s most exceptional, ground-breaking wines.
The Heritage Five are Penfolds Grange, Henschke Hill of Grace, Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay, Mount Mary Quintet Cabernet Blend and Wendouree Shiraz.
Andrew Caillard MW, Langton’s co-founder, said, “The purpose of Langton’s Classification is to generate consumer
confidence in Australian fine wine by highlighting the auction performance and reputation of the country’s leading
collectible or cellaring style wines. It has followed the progress of the ultra-fine Australian wine scene since 1990 and
provides collectors with a unique insight into the market.”
Classification VII showcases Australia’s 136 best performing and most treasured wines, with Penfolds Grange Shiraz holding on to the title of Australia’s most collectible wine thanks to its historic importance and legendary performance at auction.
Released every four years, the Classification is considered to be the highest accolade an Australian wine can
achieve, and highlights the development and growing demand for Australian fine wine. This edition covers 30 years
of influence, charting the progress of Australian wine through three decades of auction market trading.
The Classification VII ranks wines in three categories, Exceptional, Outstanding and Excellent. The classification is
compiled by analysing the track record of fine wine in Australia’s leading wine auction market, including prices and
volume of demand over a long period of time. It is a unique rating system that is based on consumer demand rather
than a single opinion.
Jeremy Parham, Langton’s General Manager said, “With over 450,000 bottles of wine and 600,000 bids analysed,
the wines in the Classification are a true reflection of the most collected and in demand wines produced in Australia.
Penfolds Grange has again solidified its position as Australia’s most collectible wine. It has also been exciting to see
new entrants such as Deep Woods and Oliver’s Taranga make the list.”
Tamara Grischy, Langton’s Head of Wine Auctions, added: “The release of the 7th Edition marks 30 years of Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine. This is a landmark achievement, reflecting three decades of building a secondary market for fine Australian wine. Classification VII also tells the story of our heritage, the significance of vineyard sites and the progression of generations. It is also a form guide for avid collectors and everyday wine drinkers who are looking to buy and enjoy Australia’s most revered wines.”
Red grape varietals dominate the Langton’s Classification VII, taking 85% of the coveted positions.
Intensely flavoured Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, from Australia’s classic wine regions are continued favourites.
Victorian Pinot Noir also makes a strong appearance, reflecting the increasing popularity of this variety.
Parham notes: “While the market still loves Shiraz and Cabernet, consumers are recognising the age of our vineyards, the dedication of our winemakers and diversity of wine styles. It is exciting to see the historic Best’s Great Western Thompson’s Reserve Shiraz, based on 1868 vines, join the Exceptional category. It is a wonderful example of the Australian fine wine aesthetic.”
A number of elegant Chardonnays have been recognised, with three new additions to the Classification, including
Cullen Kevin John Chardonnay, Oakridge Estate 864 Chardonnay and Vasse Felix Heytesbury Chardonnay.
South Australia leads Classification VII with 75 wines, largely thanks to the continued ascendancy of the Barossa
Valley. Classification VII also recognises Australia’s classic wine regions including Margaret River, Clare Valley,
Coonawarra, McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley, Hunter Valley and the emerging Canberra District.
Langton’s will take the Classification around the country from Saturday, September 1, giving wine lovers the unique
opportunity of tasting, comparing and contrasting over 130 of Australia’s finest wines in Sydney, Melbourne,
Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane.
All participants will be given the highly collectible Classification VII book, published in hardback by Hardie Grant.
Book a spot at www.langtons.com.au/events.
