Settlers Tavern triumphs at Australia’s Wine List of the Year 2019

Congratulations to Settlers Tavern on winning two awards at Australia’s Wine List of the Year 2019.

The Margaret River favourite took out Best Wine List WA and Best Listing Of WA Wines.

Launched in 1993 by Rob and Judy Hirst and Tucker Seabrook, Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards were created to recognise and reward the hard work and talent of sommeliers as well as the enormous investment in time and resources by business owners to develop quality wine lists and cellars.

Chairman of Judges Peter Forrestal noted: “There’s invariably a sommelier or a small group of dedicated wine lovers who have transformed the fortunes of pub restaurants like Perth’s Mayfair Lane, Margaret River’s Settlers Tavern, Sydney’s Upstairs at the Lord Nelson and the Adelaide Hill’s Crafers Hotel.

“People are enticed to these venues by quality food and exceptional wine lists. Sommeliers, driven by an often unreasonable passion for wine which they are determined to share, know what their consumers want and make it available. As a result, the venues thrive.”

The judging panel for the awards is a 34-strong group of highly respected local and international judges, including Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, wine judges, educators, commentators and previous award winners.

Settlers Tavern; Australia's Wine LIst of the Year

Regarding the Settlers Tavern awards, Forrestal said: “While this Margaret River destination has an impressive international collection, the focus is on Western Australia and, in particular, the local region. It is extensive with plenty of back vintages and impossible to get bottles, such as Leeuwin Estate ‘Art Series’ Chardonnay by the glass every day of the year. It balances well-known labels with likely newcomers and tiny labels. The prices are modest. And the venue is noisy and exhilarating.”

The win follows Settlers Tavern recently being declared the regional winner in the Australian Hotels Association WA Steak Sandwich competition.

Drinks Trade a proud partner of the awards

“The Drinks Association is thrilled to support Australia’s Wine List of Year,” said CEO Georgia Lennon.

“As the Trade Communications Partner of the event, we look forward to featuring the winners in our magazine, Drinks Trade. Drinks Trade is the go-to publication for Australia’s on and off-trade and keeping them informed is key to its success.

“These awards are a valuable acknowledgement of the amazing talent in our industry and I congratulate all the winners.”

Full winners list: