Discount supermarket giant Aldi has claimed a top award at the 2026 Sydney Royal Wine Show for its budget Freya and Jules Riesling.
The bottle of wine, which sells every day for $9.99, scored 95 out of 100 points to earn a Gold medal in the White Wine Riesling category.
The drop is sourced from South Australia's Clare Valley region, an area widely known for producing high-quality dry white wines. It opens with aromas of white florals and orange blossom, complemented by fresh lime and a hint of orange rind. Judges described it as a well balanced wine that finishes crisp and refreshing.
The Sydney Royal Wine Show is one of Australia's most established agricultural competitions, bringing together industry experts to judge entries across strict benchmark categories.
Award-Winning Riesling Recognised Across Australia
Before taking Gold in Sydney, the budget wine earned recognition at several other major industry events. It won Elite Gold at the 2025 Canberra International Riesling Challenge, Gold at the 2025 Royal Queensland Wine Show, and Gold at the 2025 Melbourne International Wine Competition.
"This award is a fantastic endorsement of the quality our wine team continues to deliver at Aldi prices," an Aldi spokesperson told Daily Mail.
"To receive Gold at the Sydney Royal Wine Show is an exceptional achievement, particularly for a wine that is available every day for just $9.99. This award is proof that customers don't need to spend more to enjoy exceptional wine," the spokesperson added.
Alongside the awards success, Aldi has introduced a new Secret Cellar program for Australian shoppers seeking discounted high-end bottles.
The initiative offers one ultra-premium wine at a significantly reduced price every couple of months, combining premium quality, remarkable value, and a touch of mystery.
Secret Cellar Program Launches Premium Drops
Under the new program, customers will not know which bottle is featured until stock arrives in store. Shoppers are advised to check upcoming release dates published in the supermarket's regular catalogue.
The inaugural release features the Pirramimma Trademark Limited Edition Shiraz from the McLaren Vale region in South Australia. McLaren Vale is internationally recognised for its Mediterranean climate and production of intense, full-bodied red wines.
Although valued at $70, the Pirramimma Shiraz is priced at Aldi for $14.99, giving buyers a 79 per cent saving.
"Secret Cellar is built around something we know our customers love, discovering exceptional quality at an unbeatable price. By leveraging our strong relationships across the wine industry, we're able to secure premium wines and deliver value that's genuinely exciting," a spokesperson said.
"Wine can sometimes feel intimidating or out of reach, particularly at the premium end of the market. Secret Cellar removes that barrier by giving shoppers access to outstanding wines at a price that encourages them to take a chance on something new," the spokesperson added.
The initial Shiraz drop is available in limited quantities while stocks last. The next Secret Cellar releases are scheduled to land in stores in October and December.
