ORTUS WINES
McLaren Vale , South Australia
Brands
Ortus, Poppy the Frenchie
Winery Overview
Step into the world of Ortus Wines, a hidden gem nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of South Australia. From the moment you arrive, you'll be enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere, as if you've entered the home of a dear friend. The winery's charm lies not only in its exquisite wines but also in its genuine desire to create a welcoming space for all who visit.
Julie and Paige, the mother and daughter team behind Ortus Wines, share a deep passion for wine that is evident when you visit the cellar door. They each have a unique journey into the wine industry with Julie's story beginning 25 years ago when she embarked on a computer programming degree. However, as she progressed through her studies, she discovered that her true passion did not lie in programming. Feeling unfulfilled and longing for a change, Julie made a bold decision to leave her degree behind and seek a different path.
Coincidentally, a winery happened to be located at the end of Julie's street, and she found herself drawn to the world of wine. With a desire to explore this newfound interest, Julie took on a receptionist position at the winery, initially considering it as a temporary job while she figured out her next move. Little did she know that this opportunity would ignite her lifelong dedication to the wine industry.
Over time, Julie immersed herself in the winery environment, absorbing knowledge about winemaking, viticulture, and the business side of the industry. Her genuine enthusiasm and strong work ethic did not go unnoticed, and she soon established herself as a respected and knowledgeable figure within the wine community. Building on her experience and connections, Julie decided to venture into wine brokerage, leveraging her understanding of the market and her ability to connect buyers and sellers. Her entrepreneurial spirit thrived, and she began making significant strides in the industry, developing a keen business acumen along the way.
Driven by her passion and motivated by her own vision, Julie eventually decided to create her own wine brand — Ortus Wines. With her accumulated expertise and strong network, she embarked on this new venture, establishing herself as a businesswoman in the wine world. Julie's journey from a programming student to a successful wine entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and unyielding passion for the industry.
Paige was also drawn into the wine industry through a different path and you can find her story under the winemaker bio.
With both Julie and Paige at the helm, Ortus Wines has become renowned for its exceptional white wines sourced from the nearby Adelaide Hills and Clare Valley. These whites reflect the unique terroir of the region, boasting crispness, elegance, and vibrant flavours. Not content with just producing outstanding whites, Ortus Wines also showcases their expertise in crafting remarkable red wines from the renowned Willunga region, using the exceptional grapes harvested from their own family vineyard. These bold and full-bodied reds epitomise the rich soil and Mediterranean climate, resulting in wines that captivate the senses. From velvety Shiraz to silky Grenache, each bottle tells a story of the winemaker's dedication and passion.
Ortus Wines invites you to indulge in their outstanding wines and become a part of their shared history.
Winemaker Bio
Julie and Paige, the mother-daughter team at Ortus Wines, share a deep passion for the wine industry with Paige being drawn into the industry through her mother's journey. While studying biotechnology at university, Paige found herself in need of a job and naturally gravitated towards her mother's business, where she began working as a receptionist. This was intended to be a temporary arrangement, a means to support herself during her studies.
However, as Paige spent more time at the winery and immersed herself in the daily operations, she discovered a profound love for the wine industry. The combination of science, artistry, and the sheer pleasure that wine brought to people's lives captivated her. Recognizing her growing passion, Paige made the decision to pivot her career path and fully commit to the world of wine.
Driven by her thirst for knowledge, Paige returned to university to study winemaking. Over the course of six years, she delved into the intricacies of grape cultivation, fermentation processes, blending techniques, and everything else that contributed to the creation of exceptional wines. With her rigorous education and hands-on experience, Paige honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the craft.
Today, Paige stands as the accomplished winemaker for Ortus Wines, responsible for crafting the distinctive flavors and ensuring the highest quality of their products. Her scientific background combined with her innate passion for winemaking allows her to approach her craft with precision, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.