It started with a fish tank

Lindsay has always been experimental in the vineyard. When he bought a rundown orchard in 1984, this former geography teacher and self-taught viticulturist and winemaker wasn’t sure which grape varieties to plant. It was early days for the Mornington Peninsula as a wine region. So, over the years he trialled different varieties and growing techniques.

Whilst Pinot Noir is the jewel in his crown, he also grows Shiraz, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. These are the standout varieties in this thriving coastal region, where Lindsay has lived for over three decades.

“I love living in a rural environment,” he says. “Watching the vines grow, watching the seasons pass … the thrill of being involved in vineyards. On the Mornington Peninsula, we’ve got a passionate group of vignerons that work together. We compete but we do it in a friendly way.”

Paringa Estate is recognised as one of the region’s best, with its wines winning many awards over the years. It’s been a wild ride. Lindsay made his first ever wines in an old fish tank and for around a decade his winery was a shed. A new winery was built in the late 1990s, and soon after, Lindsay opened an onsite restaurant. Today it’s highly acclaimed.

In 2007, Lindsay won James Halliday’s inaugural Australian Winery of the Year award. It seemed everything he touched turned to gold.

“I came to the industry with an economic background, taught myself to be a winemaker, and within 20 years, was nominated the best in the country. That’s about as good as it gets,” he says.

These days Lindsay’s son, Jamie, is also making wine at Paringa Estate.

“I love having my son involved,” says Lindsay. “He’s developed the same sort of passion that I have. People ask if he is telling me what to do now; we haven't got to that point yet, but I expect it might happen in the future.”

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