What a year it has been! It began with so much uncertainty about what lay ahead for Wine Animal. How would I continue to grow the business while supporting my family? Could the carpentry business prosper if my heart wasn’t fully in it? As the year comes to a close (almost), the outcome has surpassed anything I could have dreamed of: 10 interstate trips, 25+ events, and countless boxes packed and moved. Carpentry now feels like a distant memory. As I prepare to enjoy the Christmas season with family and friends, I’m also eagerly anticipating the arrival of my fourth child—my little princess, something I’ve dreamed of for as long as I can remember.
Reflecting on this year, I’m amazed at the sheer volume of wines I’ve tasted—easily over 2,000 bottles! It’s a staggering amount to try, assess, and remember, yet certain wines always stand out, leaving a lasting impression. Picking a top 10 is surprisingly difficult, and it’s a question I’ve been asked more times than I can count. Narrowing it down to a top 5 would probably be easier, but with so many incredible wines, let’s see what I can make of them all.
Here it is—my top 10 wines of the year, ranked from 10 to 1. Most of these wines have been on my list since the moment I tried them, with only a few latecomers sneaking in over the past month. Some were bottles I owned, while others were generously shared with me during one of the craziest years of my life. I’m honoured and grateful to all of you for your incredible support and friendship—it never goes unnoticed and will always be cherished. As you’ll see, there’s a clear theme here: Chardonnay. At least six of the top 10 are from this magical grape. Honestly, did you expect anything less?
Top 10 Wines of the Year:
10. Champagne Krug 163ème Edition
9. Giaconda Nantua 2019 Chardonnay
8. Chateau d’Yquem 1989
7. Cullen 2004 Kevin John Chardonnay
6. Windows Estate 2021 La Fenêtre Chardonnay
5. Joseph Drouhin, Marquis de Laguiche 2021 Montrachet Grand Cru
4. Château de Fonsalette 2011 Réserve
3. Bass Phillip 2015 Reserve Pinot Noir
2. Bouchard Père et Fils 2006 Montrachet Grand Cru
1. E. Guigal 2002 La Turque Côte-Rôtie
Each of these wines made a lasting impression on me—not always as the wine of the night, but often for its impact at the moment, whether through a small glass shared or the emotions it evoked. The top 5, in particular, are far beyond my usual reach—wines I don’t own and couldn’t afford to buy, yet thanks to generosity and friendship, I was fortunate enough to try. The Fonsalette was a last-minute addition, and it deserved its high spot on the list. This is my personal list, and while I know some may question or challenge my choices, these are the wines that mattered most to me—and that’s what makes it right for me.
Wine Animal Out.