Innovation among old vines

Andrew’s resume reads like a ‘who’s who’ of Australian wine. He started his career at Wynns Coonawarra Estate, where he helped develop new vineyards in the emerging Robe wine region. He then worked for the renowned Petaluma, and managed various vineyards in the Clare Valley wine region, before joining Tyrrell’s in 2006.

Tyrrell’s is one of Australia’s oldest family-run wineries, established in 1858. It has an international reputation for its red and white wines, including its Vat 1 Hunter Valley Semillon, widely regarded as one of the best whites. Tyrrell’s has also long been a leader in viticulture in the Hunter Valley – a relatively warm region that requires a careful approach to growing grapes. 

“The Hunter Valley is probably one of the harder regions to grow grapes in the world, and I love the challenge,” says Andrew. 

“We’ve got 25 acres of vineyards here that are over a hundred years old, that we call ‘sacred sites’. It’s quite unique for a company to have that. And so, the challenge for us is to adapt to the climate and make sure we give the winemakers the best grapes to make the best wine possible.”

To stay on top of his game, Andrew is always looking ahead. And he’s not afraid to try new things. Most recently, he’s experimented with using clay as a sunscreen for the vines. It reflects the sun and helps keep the grapes cool during hot weather, and he’s seen great results. 

“Being in the wine industry now for over 30 years and being part of a historic region and family company, my philosophy is about getting up every day and thinking something new,” says Andrew.

In 2017, Andrew was named Viticulturist of the Year at the Hunter Valley Legends Awards. A living legend in an iconic Australian winery.