Ray Jordan’s Top 100 Reds of 2025 Subheading

In preparation for the release of Ray Jordan’s Top 100 Reds of 2025, we sat down with Ray to discuss what is special about this year’s selection. 

What excites you about Ray Jordan’s Top 100 Reds list this year?

“This year I looked at 550 wines, all under $50. I guess the overarching comment I could make is that the quality that we’re seeing has never been better. From the value-for-money cheapies selling for less than $15 right through to the wines in the top price bracket, the quality of wine in this year’s Top 100 Red Wines was quite exceptional.”

“It was quite staggering to see so many excellent wines in the budget price category. These are wines that you could easily drink and not be ashamed to take to a dinner party against other hefty-priced wines.”

What makes Australian red wine stand out in the field? 

“Over the years, Australian wine has certainly developed a pretty strong reputation. We got a bit of a bad rap for a while because of a ‘sameness’ about the wines. But when you do a tasting like this, and you’re seeing different regions, different varieties and a lot of emerging varieties coming out, you start to realise the diversity and what is on offer from Australian wines. From a wine drinkers’ perspective, I encourage people to go out and try some of them. Don’t stay on your same little patch. Try something different!”

What can you tell us about choosing the Best of the Best?

“When we came down to looking at the very Best of the Best, there were half a dozen wines that were really in the mix. But it came down to two cabernets and two shiraz, and it was a really tough decision. It’s no surprise, I guess. We make great cabernet and we make great shiraz in Australia.”

“I’m really happy with the results this year. I think it’s one of the best collections I’ve been able to put together. It’s really interesting from the cheap wines, right through to the more expensive. And the good thing is, the full catalogue, with all of my tasting notes and scores, you can find in your local Liquor Barons.”

Ray Jordan’s Top 100 Reds list is out, and it’s packed with fantastic Aussie wines! Read the full catalogue with all Ray’s tasting notes and scores here.