Writing a new chapter

Since taking over the running of Stanton and Killeen, Wendy and Natasha have made some big improvements in the vineyard and winery, and found success with exciting new varieties. They’ve sold their wine to new overseas markets, including China and Taiwan, and strengthened the reputation of this historic winery.

“Our 2018 vintage is the best we’ve had for years and years,” says Wendy. “I’m very proud of the wine we are producing at the moment. And I’m proud of our past as well.”

The mother-and-daughter team live on site and work closely together. As Managing Director, Wendy manages operations and helps drive wine quality and global exports. One day she’s travelling to trade shows, the next she’s wandering the vineyard.

“My connection to the land here in Rutherglen goes back 35 years,” says Wendy. “I married into the Stanton and Killeen winery family and spend a lot of my time on the land. I have a deep love of the country.”

Natasha is General Manager Manager and is involved in all areas of the business. She was behind the decision to plant Portuguese Alvarinho and Arinto vines on an experimental block, producing two new vibrant white wines.

Wendy and Natasha now have seven Portuguese varieties growing in their vineyard, thriving in Rutherglen’s warm, dry climate and giving the winery an exciting point of difference. The reds include Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) and Tinta Barroca. They also produce Rutherglen classics Shiraz and Durif, and a range of rich fortified wines.

“We’re lucky having such a wide range of grape varieties and over the years we’ve eliminated the varieties that really don’t suit this climate,” says Wendy.

“My grandson is eighth generation and we need to be able to give him this business – and other children if they come along. I’m driven to succeed because it’s not my right to fail, really.”

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