Balnaves of Coonawarra
Coonawarra , South Australia
Winery Overview
Balnaves of Coonawarra is a small family owned wine company in the heart of the famous Coonawarra Terra Rossa strip and proud of the wines they produce. The awards they win are testament to their commitment to quality and never ending quest to produce the best wines.
Available in
France, Hong Kong, South Korea, UK, USA
Chief Winemaker/s
Maddie Lemire (Winemaker), Pete Balnaves (Viticulturist)
Winemaker Bio
With a diverse background spanning premium wine production, sales, and hospitality, Maddie LeMire brings a dynamic and well-rounded approach to her role as Winemaker at Balnaves. After completing a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide, Maddie gained experience across celebrated Australian and international wineries, including Shaw and Smith, Yangarra Estate, Brokenwood, and Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey in Burgundy.
She further expanded her international experience with a vintage at the Le Pin in Pomerol, Bordeaux. Her hands-on involvement in all aspects of vintage operations—from fruit intake to barrel work—combined with early experience in wine sales, distribution, and cellar door hospitality, gives her a deep understanding of the full journey from vineyard to glass. Most recently serving as Assistant Winemaker at Bekkers in McLaren Vale, Maddie contributed to both winemaking and brand engagement.
Now based in Coonawarra, Maddie continues to build on her technical expertise and creative vision, committed to crafting wines that reflect the history and reputation of Balnaves and the region.