In the history of Sevenhill
Cellars, there have been 7 Jesuit Brother Winemakers.
In September 1851 Br Schreiner bought some vine cuttings from Bungaree
Station and planted them on the left hand side of the present road
to the winery. This planting marks the beginning of Sevenhill Cellars
and makes it the oldest winery in the Clare Valley. These vines were
planted initially to meet the need for altar wine. The production of
altar wine today accounts for 30% of the winery's production. This
wine, made in the style of a sherry and in conformity with the requirements
of Canon Law is sold to all Christian denominations in Australia for
use in religious services. It is exported to India, Indonesia, Papua
New Guinea, Singapore, Guam, Borneo and Pacific Isles.
Brother John May SJ , Jesuit Winemaker Emeritus has been with Sevenhill
Cellars since 1972. He was instrumental in building the winery up to
the technologically advanced state of today.
Winemaker, Liz Heidenreich, joined the winery in 2005. Adelaide
born and educated, 34-year old Liz has a wealth of knowledge and experience
gained in Australia and overseas. |
