• Enter Now

Insights

Australian Wine Importers Leading the Charge in Bringing Aussie Wines Stateside

Photo for: Australian Wine Importers Leading the Charge in Bringing Aussie Wines Stateside

07/10/2024 Discover the top Australian wine importers in the USA, bridging the gap between Australia’s finest wineries and American wine enthusiasts

The Australian wine industry has made a significant mark on the global stage, and the USA is one of the biggest markets for Aussie wines, after the UK. This success is due to the work of dedicated wine importers who bring the best of Australian winemaking to American consumers. From small family-owned wineries to established iconic producers, these importers curate portfolios that reflect the true essence of Australian wine. In this article, we explore the top Australian wine importers in the USA and their contributions to elevating Australian wines.

1. Legend Australian Wine Imports

With decades of combined experience, husband and wife team Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross founded Legend Australian Wine Imports, drawing from their deep expertise in both the Australian and US wine markets. Jane, one of only 35 women to pass the Master Sommelier exam, brings an illustrious background that includes roles at prestigious restaurants like Eleven Madison Park (New York) and Attica (Melbourne), as well as authorship of the acclaimed wine book Vignette. Jonathan, who also passed the Master Sommelier exam, has held prominent positions such as Head Sommelier at Eleven Madison Park and Beverage Director for Australia's renowned Rockpool Group. Together, they launched How to Drink Australian in 2023, offering a modern guide to Australian wine. Their own label, Micro Wines, showcases the couple's hands-on involvement in winemaking, while Legend Australian Wine Imports curates a diverse and high-quality selection of Australian wines. Recently Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross also joined the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2025 panel of judges.

Legend Australian Wine Imports

Image Credits: Legend Australian Wine Imports

2. Little Peacock Imports

New York-based Little Peacock Imports focuses on bringing authentic Australian wines to US retailers, bars, and restaurants. Specializing in smaller, family-owned wineries, the portfolio spans iconic wine regions such as Victoria, Tasmania, and the Barossa. By curating a selection of wines made by Australians, for Australians, Little Peacock Imports fosters a sense of authenticity and quality in every bottle.

Little Peacock Imports

Image Credits: Little Peacock Imports

3. Epicurean Wines

Founded in 2000, Epicurean Wines is one of the oldest 100% Australian wine importers in North America. With a portfolio of over 75 labels, they’ve built a strong reputation by meticulously selecting some of Australia’s finest wines. From their base in Seattle, they partner with distributors across 48 states, offering wines that capture the unique artistry of Australian winemaking.

Epicurean Wines

Image Credits: Epicurean Wines

4. Elixir Wine Group

Elixir Wine Group expanded its portfolio in 2018 to include Australian wines, representing top family-owned wineries. Known for their artisanal selections, Elixir goes beyond importing, engaging with producers and promoting wines nationally across the USA. Their commitment to excellence shines through in their carefully curated selection of wines from Australia’s finest regions.

Elixir Wine Group

Image Credits: Elixir Wine Group

5. Hudson Wine Brokers

Since 2014, Hudson Wine Brokers has been dedicated to importing wines from small, family-owned Australian wineries. They emphasize sustainable and organic viticulture, ensuring each wine reflects the distinct terroir of Australia’s diverse regions. Hudson Wine Brokers’ portfolio is known for its balance of traditional, multi-generational wineries and emerging, innovative winemakers.

[[relatedPurchasesItems-61]]

6. Vine Street Imports

For over 20 years, Vine Street Imports has been a key player in bringing Australian wines to the USA. Their portfolio includes collaborations with innovative Australian winemakers such as Agricola Vintners and Heirloom Vineyards. By focusing on amplifying winemaker stories, they help bridge the cultural and commercial divide between Australia and the US wine scene.

Vine Street Imports

Image Credits: Vine Street Imports

7. Little Collins – Australian Wine Importer

Little Collins, run by a husband-and-wife team, focuses on under-the-radar, boutique Australian wineries. Sourcing wines from Victoria and beyond, they specialize in small production, sustainable wines. Their passion for promoting Australian wine shines through in every bottle they import, aiming to challenge misconceptions and highlight the diversity of Australian winemaking.

Little Collins – Australian Wine Importer

Image Credits: Little Collins – Australian Wine Importer

8. Winebow Imports

A leading importer and distributor, Winebow connects fine Australian wines with American consumers. With a portfolio featuring brands like Shaw + Smith and Yalumba, they offer wines that are authentic and true to their origins. Their extensive reach across all 51 US markets ensures that Australian wines are widely available and celebrated by wine enthusiasts.

Winebow Imports

Image Credits: Winebow Imports

9. Old Bridge Cellars

Established in 1990, Old Bridge Cellars has long been a go-to importer of Australia’s most iconic wines. Representing wineries true to their regions, they are dedicated to promoting wines that capture the essence of Australian terroir. Their decades-long relationships with top Australian vintners have solidified their reputation as champions of fine Australian wine in the USA.

Old Bridge Cellars

Image Credits: Old Bridge Cellars

These top Australian wine importers play an essential role in bringing the diversity and quality of Australian wines to the US market. By partnering with passionate winemakers and curating exceptional portfolios, these importers ensure that American wine lovers have access to some of the best wines Australia has to offer. 

Header image sourced from Vine Street Imports.

Related Links: 
This October 2024 It’s Time to Come Over and Talk Wine 
Award-Winning South American Wine Importer That Sommeliers Must Work With

2025 Sommeliers Choice Awards submissions is now open for domestic and international wines. Enter your Wines to get the super early bird pricing before October 31, 2024