Its 2013 Semillon was the only Hilltops wine to make it onto the coveted list which was announced in November.

Winemaker Celine Rousseau said it was exciting to be recognised on a national platform. 

Originally from the Bordeaux region of France, she has taken cues from her French training and adapted her winemaking to suit the region.

“It’s recognition for all the work that we do,” she said.

“You’re not contacted if you’re going to be named on the list, you just have to wait and see.”

James Halliday - who is one of the country’s most well-known wine critics - publishes a list of his top 100 wines each year in The Australian, selected from more than 1500 submissions. 

Chalkers Crossing was also named as a five star winery in his 2014 edition of the Australian Wine Companion.

A spot on the list means instant recognition in a highly competitive market. 

“It’s obviously great for business to be named on the list, people notice it,” she said. 

“Retailers and restaurants buy from there.”

The award-winning semillon has been described as a good alternative from Hunter Valley varieties, often seen as acidic.

Celine said it was a good food wine, with lemon rind undertones. 

Only 500 cases of the wine were produced. 

“A very different take on semillon for those who don’t get the Hunter Valley style,” James Halliday said in his description of the wine.

Celine credits the success of the wine to a strong 2013 vintage.

Scoring 94 points out of a possible 100, placing it in the silver medal category.  

Celine said the winery had a large focus on export and had shifted its focus to Asia over the past five years.

Currently 40 per cent of their wine is for local markets, while the remaining is exported.