We're thrilled to share that Gibson Wines has been named a finalist in the 2026 South Australian Tourism Awards — and we couldn't be more proud to represent the Barossa Valley on this stage.
Being recognised as a finalist is a reflection of everything this place stands for. The Dirtborn Barossa philosophy that guides everything we do — from the way we grow our fruit to the way we welcome guests at The Smithy — is at the heart of what we submitted. Our entry covered the new experiences we launched this year, including Behind the Scenes: A Taste of Vintage, the launch of The Prospect Barossa Shiraz Montepulciano, and two milestones we're particularly proud of.
Running on Sunshine
This year, for the first time in our nearly three-decade history, we ran a full vintage entirely on solar-generated and battery-stored power. For a winery, vintage is the most energy-intensive period of the year — refrigeration, pumps, presses, and climate control running around the clock across weeks of harvest. Achieving this entirely on renewable energy — powered by our 39.96kW solar array and 93.6kWh battery storage system — is something the whole team is genuinely proud of.
It's a commitment that sits at the core of who we are. If you believe the land determines the quality of everything you make, then protecting that land is not optional. Sustainable Grape Growing Accreditation, Sustainable Tourism Accreditation, and now a vintage powered by the Barossa sun.
Twenty Years of Sunday Funday
For over two decades, Sunday Funday has been our way of saying thank you. No ticket price, no dress code, no agenda — just good wine, live music, lawn games, and the gates open to anyone who wants to spend a Sunday afternoon at Light Pass. Last October we welcomed over 200 guests for another afternoon that reminded us exactly why we do what we do. We're keen to do it all again, this October 25th 2026.
The locals who have been coming for years, the families who discover us for the first time, the visitors who weren't planning on stopping but heard the music from the road — these are the people who make Gibson what it is. This finalist recognition belongs to them as much as it belongs to us.
Thank You
To our cellar door team — Kristy, Kerry, Fin, Sam, and the wider Gibson family — thank you. Your care, your conversations, and your genuine love for this place is what guests remember and what judges recognise. To our wine club members, our Sunday Funday community, and everyone who has visited Light Pass and made Gibson their Barossa home — this is for you.
Now We Need Your Help
Gibson Wines is in the running for the People's Choice Award — and voting is open now. It takes two minutes and means everything to a small family winery in the northern Barossa.
Vote here: People's Choice Voting Link
Voting closes 5pm Monday 12 October. Winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner on Friday 6 November at Morphettville Racecourse.
Thank you for being part of the Gibson story. We'll see you at the cellar door.