Koonowla Wines

About this Cellar

The property, just east of Auburn, was first planted with vines in the 1890s and by the early 1900s was producing some 60,000 litres of wine annually from its extensive cellars, before a disastrous fire in 1926 and changing times saw it converted to grain and wool production.

Replanting of vines commenced in 1985 and accelerated markedly after Andrew and Booie Michael purchased the property in 1991 and expanded the vineyard to 250 acres.

Andrew and Booie firmly believe that there is a bouyant demand for premium wines that show distinct regional and varietal character, and that brands such as Koonowla can always have a strong presence on retail shelves and restaurant lists around Australia.

To that end, they have secured the services of two of Australia’s most highly regarded winemakers — David O’Leary and Nick Walker.

They have an intimate understanding of Clare Valley viticulture and winemaking, and the Michaels work closely with them to ensure that the wines reflect the district’s unique terroir.

The wine styles being pursued by Koonowla are a blend of unashamed Clare tradition and modern winemaking.