Chapel Hill Winery in McLaren Vale has revealed the judging panel for its inaugural Horizons Art Prize, appointing Adele Siluzas, Maria Zagala, and Michael Fragos. The $5,000 acquisitive award invites artists to interpret the local landscape and envision South Australia’s future through visual art.
Siluzas, visual arts curator at The Mill Adelaide, joins Zagala, a curator at the Art Gallery of South Australia, and Fragos, Chapel Hill’s chief winemaker, on the panel. The competition bridges the realms of art and wine, reflecting the region’s cultural and environmental identity.
Shortlisted entries will be displayed at Chapel Hill during the South Australian Living Arts (SALA) Festival. The winning artwork will be acquired for the winery’s permanent collection and exhibited in its historic chapel.
“Chapel Hill is defined by its spectacular surroundings,” said Fragos. “Every day we take inspiration from the beautiful landscape, the views over McLaren Vale and the coast, as well as the shimmering sunsets.”
Submissions close on 14 July 2025.
Applewood Distillery Rebrands as Bottle Shock Wine Bar
Gumeracha’s Applewood Distillery has been reimagined as Bottle Shock, a wine bar inspired by the popular YouTube channel of the same name. Led by Unico Zelo founder and 40 Under 40 alumni Brendan Carter, the venue aims to demystify wine culture.
“It transforms the often-intimidating world of wine tasting into a fun, engaging, and educational experience,” Carter said.
Following a soft launch in April, Bottle Shock officially opens this Friday at 24 Victoria Street, Gumeracha.
Nearly Wine Bar Launches Limited Apparel Line
Nearly, the Hindley Street wine bar known for its casual atmosphere, has ventured into fashion with the release of a limited line of branded merchandise. The collection includes two T-shirts and a cap, available exclusively at the venue located at 179 Hindley Street.
Jennie Wine Bar Offers Entire List by the Glass for Coravin World Tour
Jennie Wine Bar on Peel Street is one of just five venues nationwide participating in the Coravin World Tour, enabling patrons to sample every bottle on its wine list by the glass through the end of the month.
Coravin’s wine preservation technology allows bottles to remain fresh while aerating wine during pouring.
“We’re really excited by this opportunity,” said director Scott Taddeo. “Our list includes classics as well as unique selections from emerging regions and lesser-known Mediterranean islands. Being able to offer these by the glass showcases the full spectrum of the wine world.”
Ricky Gervais Features South Australian Shiraz in Tour Rider
Comedian Ricky Gervais recently shared his tour rider on Instagram, prominently featuring a bottle of Château Tanunda Grand Barossa Shiraz 2022. The $25 wine was paired with KP nuts and fruit, which Gervais joked was “lit… all wrong.”
The winery reported a surge in interest following the post.
“Print media, radio, and TV have picked it up, along with our own customers seeking out the wine,” Château Tanunda stated on Instagram, clarifying it was not a paid endorsement.
“As a family-owned winery, we are incredibly grateful for the response. Australian wine appreciates any good news stories we can get at the moment.”
The 2023 vintage is currently available via the winery’s website.
Sam Fischer Named CEO of Treasury Wine Estates
Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) has appointed Sam Fischer as its new CEO and managing director, effective 27 October 2025. Fischer, who is currently CEO of Lion (a Kirin Group company), brings over three decades of international experience across the alcoholic beverages, consumer goods, and luxury sectors.
Previously, Fischer held executive roles at Diageo and Colgate-Palmolive, including president of Diageo’s Asia Pacific region and membership on the global executive committee.
“Sam brings proven CEO credentials, exceptional strategic acumen, and deep expertise,” said TWE Chair John Mullen. “He is well-positioned to drive the next phase of our growth.”
Fischer will succeed Tim Ford, who departs after 14 years at TWE, including five years as CEO. TWE’s portfolio includes South Australian wine labels such as Penfolds, Wolf Blass, Pepperjack, and Wynns Coonawarra Estate.
Danny Celoni Appointed CEO of Newly Formed Vinarchy
Vinarchy, the global wine company formed by the merger of Accolade Wines and Pernod Ricard Winemakers, has named Danny Celoni as its inaugural CEO.
Celoni brings more than 25 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods and global beverage brands, most recently serving as CEO of Carlton & United Breweries. His career also includes leadership roles at PepsiCo.
“Danny is the right person to lead our business as we capture the opportunities as a global wine leader,” said Executive Chairman Ben Clarke, who will step down to become non-executive chairman as Celoni assumes leadership.
Vinarchy’s portfolio includes notable brands such as Hardys, Campo Viejo, and Jacob’s Creek.
Entries Open for 2026 Best of Wine Tourism Awards
Applications are now open for the 2026 Best of Wine Tourism (BOWT) Awards, part of the Great Wine Capitals global network. The awards recognise innovation and excellence in wine tourism.
South Australian wine businesses are encouraged to apply, with last year’s global award for Architecture and Landscape awarded to McLaren Vale’s Dandelion Vineyards.
“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to promote our state not just for great wine, but also for unforgettable experiences,” said South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison.
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