Here's the ALDI wine everyone’s talking about at Melbourne’s top competition—and it’s only $4.59

Even seasoned wine lovers might do a double take at this one.

A bargain bottle from ALDI has just stunned judges at one of Australia’s most respected wine competitions.

It turns out, sometimes the best surprises come in the smallest price tags.

The Melbourne International Wine Competition, now in its 13th year, isn’t your typical wine show where critics swirl and pontificate.

Instead, real trade buyers—the people who decide what wines reach restaurant lists and bottle shop shelves—judge all entries in blind tastings.

ALDI’s South Point Estate Pinot Grigio didn’t just win an award—it took home Gold in a field of over 1,000 entries from seven countries.

This is especially impressive given the judging panels included at least four qualified trade buyers such as restaurateurs, sommeliers, retail buyers, distributors and importers.

The German supermarket chain’s success didn’t stop there.

ALDI claimed 18 awards across the board, including Double Gold, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, with every winning bottle priced under $14—a refreshing break from a wine world where prestige often comes with eye-watering prices.

What makes this competition stand out is its price-focused judging.

Wines compete within their actual price categories, meaning the $4.59 Pinot Grigio wasn’t up against $200 Burgundies—it was judged against other similarly priced wines, making its Gold medal both fair and meaningful for everyday wine drinkers.

Award levels are clear: Double Gold denotes a 'Phenomenal Product' with unanimous votes, Gold means all judges 'love' it, Silver means they 'like' it, and Bronze indicates judges would purchase it.

For the South Point Estate Pinot Grigio to achieve Gold, professional buyers unanimously approved of its taste.

ALDI has built a reputation for sourcing exceptional wines at low prices.

Previous competitions have seen similar success, such as a 2024 ALDI Riesling that tricked tasters into thinking it was worth $100.

The 2024 Melbourne International Wine Competition featured over 1,000 wines from eight countries, proving it is a serious international event.

For Australian wine lovers watching their budgets, the South Point Estate Pinot Grigio reinforces an important principle: price doesn’t always equal quality.

Described as crisp, pale and fruity, this Central Victorian wine is exclusive to ALDI Australia, offering exceptional value at $4.59.

The success of affordable Australian wines at serious competitions should encourage wine lovers to explore beyond premium price brackets.

When professional buyers give a $4.59 bottle their Gold seal of approval, it is worth paying attention.

For seniors on fixed incomes, this demonstrates that good wine doesn’t require a significant investment, whether for hosting friends, enjoying a quiet meal, or gifting without overspending.

The South Point Estate Pinot Grigio also highlights the consistent quality of Australian winemaking across all price points, benefiting consumers through better selection and value.

A final toast—please drink responsibly—but there is a special satisfaction in knowing your $4.59 bottle earned the same Gold medal that many wines costing 20 times more would celebrate.

The next time you browse ALDI’s wine aisle, you may just uncover your next favourite drop—and an award-winning one at that.

Finding quality bargains can sometimes be a tricky treasure hunt, even for items you think you know well.

Just like discovering an award-winning $4.59 wine, everyday favourites can unexpectedly disappear from shelves, leaving shoppers searching for answers.

Here’s a story that dives into why your go-to ALDI snack might vanish and what’s behind these sudden changes.

Read more: Frustrated your go-to ALDI snack vanished again? Here's the strategy behind it

Have you ever been surprised by the quality of a bargain wine?