The wine world is mourning the unexpected death of 58-year-old Matthew Jukes, a respected wine writer, author, broadcaster and passionate advocate for Australian wine. Jukes died on August 6, 2026, while on holiday with his family in Portugal, according to reports from wine publications. He is survived by his wife, Amelia, and their four children.
Jukes devoted nearly four decades to the world of wine and became one of the most recognisable voices promoting Australian wines to international audiences. His enthusiasm for the industry, generosity toward producers and deep knowledge of wine earned him the respect of colleagues, winemakers and wine lovers around the world.
Among his best-known contributions was his annual “100 Best Australian Wines” list, which helped introduce consumers in the United Kingdom and elsewhere to Australian producers and their wines. The list became an important part of his work and reflected his long-standing commitment to showcasing the quality and diversity of Australia’s wine industry.
Jukes was also a prolific author. He wrote 14 wine books, including The Wine List, with his publications selling more than one million copies. His contribution to Australian wine was formally recognised in 2012 when he was named an Honorary Australian of the Year.
His connection to South Australia extended well beyond his work as a wine writer. In 2005, Jukes founded the Touch Wine charity event, which helped raise money for the Hutt Street Centre and supported Adelaide’s homeless community. The initiative reflected another side of his character, with friends and colleagues remembering him as someone who was passionate about helping people and supporting the communities connected to the causes he valued.
Jukes’ death has been described as sudden, although a specific cause of death has not been publicly reported in the available information. His passing has left colleagues and friends reflecting on a career that combined professional achievement with a genuine enthusiasm for the people and places behind the wines he championed.
For the Australian and international wine communities, Matthew Jukes leaves behind a considerable legacy. Through his books, broadcasting, annual wine lists, charitable work and advocacy, he helped bring Australian wine to a wider audience while inspiring countless people to take a greater interest in the world of wine.
