Langtons Wine Classification

The Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine V has grown in size and stature since its last classification in 2005, showing an increased demand for quality across the Australian wine category. Compiled using secondary wine market data, the Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine V indicates the added depth, awareness and movement in the top end Australian wine market and the support for premium Australian wine with domestic and international consumers alike.

The list is comprised of 58 Shiraz/blends, 40 Cabernet/blends, 10 Pinot Noirs and 15 white wines. Penfolds Bin 95 Grange Shiraz heads up the list and according to Langton’s founder and general manager Steward Langton, the dominance of Shiraz on the list, including five new “exceptional” entrants, reflects the variety’s reputation for longevity and style diversity.

The addition of Jeffrey Grosset Polish Hill Riesling to the highest ranking acknowledges and rewards a unique masterpiece. The total numbers have expanded from 101 to 123, it should be remembered that most of these wines are limited in production.

Andrew Caillard MW of Langtons said “If you take out Penfolds, an incredible auction market performer, the volume of wine produced is equivalent to less than the five Bordeaux first growths. It is no exaggeration to say that ultra-fine Australian wine is extremely limited and the rarity of pre-1990 vintages illustrates this.”

“Langton’s classified wines are Australia’s enduring grand marques. Individually they resonate a sense of place or voice of country; combined, they articulate Australia’s place in the world of fine wine.”

Langton’s Classification was first released in 1990 to create confidence in a fledgling Australian secondary wine market.

Classification comprises four rankings (Exceptional, Outstanding, Excellent and Distinguished) and for a wine to achieve a listing it must have traction on the secondary wine market. Auction prices, track record and volume of demand are all considered and the criteria for inclusion are objective and market-driven.