Aaron Mercer, founder and winemaker of Mercer Wines, has been named a finalist for the Rising Star of the Year in the 2026 Top Wineries of Australia awards. The recognition by wine authority The Real Review highlights Aaron’s work with alternative varieties and sustainable viticulture within the New South Wales wine industry.
The Rising Star category is part of the category awards that precede the annual Top Wineries of Australia rankings. Aaron is one of two New South Wales winemakers shortlisted for the talent-based honour, alongside Nadja Wallington of Orange-based ChaLou Wines.
Principal Wine Writer for The Real Review, Huon Hooke said the New South Wales finalists represent a vibrant future for the state’s wine sector.
“Both Aaron and Nadja are highly impressive winemakers. Mercer is doing fine work with alternative varieties and sustainable viticulture,” Huon said.
“At a time when the wine industry faces challenges, it is important to celebrate the individuals behind the craft and the distinctive styles they bring to life.”
Mercer Wines has established a reputation for a “tread lightly” approach to winemaking, focusing on sustainable practices and varieties that are well-suited to the changing climate of the Hunter and surrounding regional New South Wales. The firm’s inclusion in the national finals comes after a rigorous tasting process where critics reviewed more than 10,000 wines nationwide.
The award categories for 2026 also include variety-specific honours across sparkling, white, rosé, red, sweet and fortified styles. While Victoria led the nominations with 10 finalists, the inclusion of Mercer Wines in the talent categories reflects the growing national profile of Hunter-based producers focused on innovation and terroir-driven results.
Winners of the Rising Star of the Year and the final Top Wineries of Australia rankings will be announced on 11 May 2026. The rankings are determined by a proprietary algorithm that assesses wine scores and review recency over a two-year period, providing a benchmark for quality and consistency in the Australian market.
The recognition as a national finalist positions Mercer Wines alongside some of the country’s most established producers. For Aaron, the nomination underscores the commercial and critical viability of focusing on climate-appropriate varieties and low-intervention production methods in the current Australian landscape.
IMAGE | Mercer Wines founder named finalist in national Rising Star awards
