Since 1986 the guide has adorned bookshelves as a go to reference point for all thing's vino.

Producers from Orange have had varying success throughout the past, but as the region has grown so has the success of wines listed in the guide.

James Halliday and his tasting panel rate all the wines received (sent in by the producers) out of 100.

He then proceeds to list those scores in the guide for all to see alongside a short tasting note.

Whilst there have been speculations of a bias towards Victorian producers in recent years, it looks as if New South Wales's best are starting to receive accolades that they deserve, notably Hunter Valley producer Brokenwood with their 2018 Graveyard Shiraz receiving wine of the year.

Even closer to home, Ross Hill has continually led the charge in terms of wineries ratings for the guide from Orange receiving yet another five red star rating in the recently released 2021 edition.

Each producer that enters the companion also receives a star rating from the guide.

Ross Hill, led by their 95 point scoring Sauvignon Blanc, have achieved the result year in year out.

It's a truly remarkable feat.

Rowlee have created a little bit of hype in the guide and received a 95 for their Rose, making it one of Orange's most successful Rose of all time.

Rowlee's persistence and hard work is leading to some special wines and national recognition for their pinot-based Rose is well deserved.

Printhie is on an absolute roll.

A new cellar door, a fantastic location and nothing short of spectacular results for their wines in the Halliday Companion.

I have lost count of the amount of times I have ended up preaching about their sparkling range to customers on the restaurant floor.

This time four of them, a ludicrous number, all scoring above 95 points and seemingly confirming that winemaker Drew Tuckwell may perhaps be more wizard than scientist.

To add to this their Super Duper Chardonnay scored an incredible 96.

Nashdale Lane are rejoicing as their Shiraz was not only their top scoring wine but the top scoring shiraz with a 96.

The Segger's are constantly pushing forward and this result for their shiraz is a complete eye opened to what their vineyard is capable of.

Has Orange found it's new doyen of Shiraz?

As always, the pioneer of Pinot Gris in the region Peter Gibson of Word of Mouth Wines has been recognised for his efforts.

His success with the varietal is unparalleled locally and is probably one of the best examples of Gris to be found anywhere in Australia.

Word of Mouth consistently appears to fly under the radar with many locals in our region somehow, but once they try the head turning Gris they are soon fully aware of the quality this vineyard can produce.