The 2022 Mataro from “Red by Caroline Dunn”, a small producer from Barossa, has been recognised as Best Barossa Wine at the 2023 Barossa Wine Show Awards Presentation Dinner on Thursday 14 September.

Mataro is one of Barossa’s most beguiling varieties, which showcases the quintessential Barossa-ness in a bright, modern way, as seen in this award-winning wine. Red by Caroline Dunn took home three trophies, Best Barossa Wine, Best Red Wine and Best Mataro/Mourvédre.

Chair of Judges, Sue Bell, said “The core and expressiveness of Barossa has shown through, for this Mataro to justify winning wine of show, which is no surprise given it is made by one of the best palates the wine industry has ever seen, Caroline Dunn.” The fruit was selected from vineyards in Light Pass and Stonewell, each built on terrific terroir and meticulous viticulture.

On accepting the award, Caroline Dunn said “I am so thrilled that a Mataro has got up as the Wine of Show! It’s great that it’s coming out of the shadows and is no longer just in a blend, it’s a wine of its own right.”

Another highlight of the evening was the award for Wine of Provenance, an award that recognises and celebrates the viticultural and winemaking strength of the Barossa’s past, present and future.
In this award, judges assess a group of three submitted wines for style continuity, pedigree and representation of maturation potential over a 10-year period.

A White Wine and Red Wine of Provenance trophy is then awarded. As Rieslingfreak No. 4 Eden Valley Riesling was awarded the 2023 White Wine of Provenance, for their 2023, 2017, 2013 vintages, the audience gave Winemaker John Hughes a standing ovation at the Wine Show. In addition, for a second year in a row, Saltram Wine Estate No.1 Shiraz was awarded the Red Wine of Provenance, leaving no doubt that Barossa Shiraz is still as strong as ever.

Barossa Australia Chief Executive, Scott Hazeldine commented: “An event of this nature would not be possible without the commitment and generosity of the region’s winemakers and our sponsors.”
In total, 426 medals were awarded in the 2023 Barossa Wine Show; 78 gold, 111 silver and 237 bronze.

View full results and medal winners from the Barossa Wine Show 2023