There’s something about South Australia’s Riverland that breeds world-class spirits. And this week, Renmark’s St Agnes Distillery proved it once again.
Nabbing the top gong at the Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show, St Agnes took out Best Distilled Spirit of Show for the second year running, this time with its XO 15 Year Old. The same drop also secured the title of Best Brandy, cementing its place as a benchmark for brandy lovers across the globe.
Sydney Royal Chair of Judges Stuart Gregor didn’t hold back in his praise. “Brandies from the winning distillery should probably be registered as national treasures – they are exquisite, and the winner balances freshness and age perfectly. They are the world’s best, no question,” he said. It’s a glowing shout-out for the label, sharp enough to make even the brandy sceptics (me) compelled to try a glass.
It’s not the first time St Agnes has shone on the big stage. In 2024, the distillery struck gold with its XO Grand Reserve 40 Year Old. More recently, it’s been named Champion Spirit at the Perth Royal Distilled Spirit Awards, claimed a gold medal at the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition, and was crowned Brandy Taste Master at The Spirits Business Brandy Masters in London.
For Co-Managing Director Richard Angove, the recognition is still a thrill. “We’re thrilled our XO 15YO has been crowned not only the best brandy but the best spirit overall – it’s an incredible honour,” he gushes.
“This award shines a light on the dedication and skill of our small Renmark team, who continually raise the bar to keep St Agnes at the forefront of Australian distilling.”
And it wasn’t just St Agnes flying the flag for South Australia. Never Never Distilling, Fleurieu Distilling and Tria Prima also had a standout night, with SA distillers collectively walking away with half of the 14 major awards.
“South Australia continues to set the bar for world-class spirits, and it’s fantastic to see so many homegrown labels recognised in this way,” adds Richard.
It’s all part of a remarkable century and a true coming-of-age story for the Riverland distillery. Founded in 1925 by visionary winemaker Carl Angove, St Agnes is still run by the same family, and this year it celebrated its 100th distilling season. The milestone was marked with the release of the XXO 50 Year Old Exceptional Reserve, the oldest and most expensive bottled spirit ever produced in Australia.
Step inside the distillery today and you’ll find the original copper pot stills still in use, their age and imperfections part of the reason for the brandy’s complexity. “Every drop that runs through those stills carries the imprint of a century of craftsmanship,” Richard says.
The St Agnes story uniquely balances history with innovation. From its experimental Bartender’s Cut made for modern mixologists, to sustainable distilling practices and collaborations, the family’s blueprint is clear. The secret to success is patience, vision and courage.
“There’s a sense of potential… you know the stock is quietly maturing, concentrating, developing flavour,” Richard told Glam Adelaide back in May.
“It’s not about competing with the wine side—it’s about showing that great Australian spirits deserve a global stage.”
And that global ambition continues to be fuelled by the accolades rolling in. “It feels completely surreal to see the recognition,” Richard says. “Renmark is part of our DNA – and to share that with the world is a privilege.”
These recent wins are just another notch on the belt for an industry pioneer. A hundred seasons down. A legacy forever in motion.
Fancy a try? Shop the full range here.
What: St Agnes Distillery named Best Distilled Spirit, Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show
Where: Bookmark Ave, Renmark
When: Open daily for tastings and sales: Monday to Friday 10am–5pm
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 11am–4pm
For the full list of winners, visit the Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits website.
