When did you realise you wanted to become a winemaker? 

I didn’t always want to be a winemaker and initially studied Commerce at Adelaide University. It was during this time that I realised that this career path wasn’t for me, and that the thought of being a winemaker was far more my style. So, the following year I transferred into winemaking and never looked back.

Please tell us more about your career so far.

I graduated from Adelaide University with a Bachelor in Agricultural Science (Oenology) in 2001. I then worked at Hollick Estates in Coonawarra for three years, before moving to Canada for what was supposed to be a couple of years but ended up being eleven. During that time, I worked at Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate in British Columbia, and also completed a vintage in Chile. In 2015, my family and I made the journey back to Australia where I started a winemaking role with Accolade Wines. It was during this time that the opportunity to work for Shaw Family Vintners arose and I was fortunate enough to become their winemaker in 2016.  

What do you love most about being a winemaker? 

Every year Mother Nature deals a different hand, which keeps me motivated and inspired. I also love being able to travel the world and gain invaluable work experience at the same time. 

What is your favourite wine, and what food do you typically pair it with? 

Shaw Family Vintners The Josephine Pinot Gris and freshly shucked oysters is a wonderful pairing and just tastes so good! 

Is there a specific process you follow when developing a new wine? 

It’s a bit of trial and error, but whenever I’m starting to develop a new wine I always have a certain style in mind. I think about what techniques I can incorporate in the vineyard and winery to help achieve that style. I also like to do a bit of homework by tasting a lot of wines, as well as discover what other winemakers are crafting.   

Is there any vintage you’re particularly proud of creating? Why? 

The 2007 in Okanagan Valley, Canada was a pretty special vintage.  Almost perfect growing conditions lead to many amazing wines and a couple of trophies at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). This really helped to showcase what Canada can do on the winemaking front.