Nominated for the Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards

Nominations for the 26th annual Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Award have been announced and Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia member House of Arras has secured two nominations: New World Winery of the Year and Winemaker of the Year for its visionary Chief Winemaker Ed Carr.

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Elevating Australian Sparkling to the World Stage

Based in Northern Tasmania, House of Arras is nominated among this list of the most influential and impactful producers and businesses across the globe. Renowned for crafting world-class méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, House of Arras has long been a pioneer of premium Australian bubbles. Under Ed Carr’s visionary leadership, the winery has redefined what’s possible from cool-climate viticulture in Northern Tasmania. Carr, who was named Sparkling Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge last year, is already recognised as a trailblazer — the first Australian, and one of only two winemakers outside France’s Champagne region to receive that title.

“To be considered amongst my peers at this level is a terrific recognition for me and the work of the team at House of Arras,” said Carr. “Since 1995, we have been unwavering in our mission to craft a sparkling wine that would set a new benchmark for the category across the globe.”

Unforgettable Experiences at House of Arras

Visitors to House of Arras can immerse themselves in a series of curated, premium experiences through Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia. Whether you’re a sparkling connoisseur or a curious explorer, you’ll find something truly memorable:

• Sparkling Scholar Experience - A guided masterclass delving into the craftsmanship behind House of Arras’ méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines.

• Wine, Wildlife and Vineyard Experience - A one-of-a-kind journey through the local landscape, combining gourmet tastings with encounters with Tasmania’s iconic wildlife.

• 40 Years of Tirage - A rare and intimate tasting experience showcasing some of the most prized back-vintage and museum-release sparkling wines.

A Benchmark for Excellence

The New World Winery of the Year nomination places House of Arras alongside past award-winning Australian wineries like Vasse Felix (Margaret River), Penfolds (Adelaide Hills), and Yalumba (Barossa Valley) — all proud members of the Ultimate Winery Experiences collective.

As UWEA Executive Officer Sarah Myers said:
“House of Arras is going from strength to strength. These nominations are a testament to the quality of Australian sparkling wine and the world-class experiences offered at this extraordinary winery.”

The winners of the 2025 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards will be announced in January and featured in the magazine’s Best of Year issue.

Discover the full range of premium experiences at House of Arras here.