One of South Australia’s favourite family wineries, Skillogalee at Sevenhill in the Clare Valley, has been sold to businessman Simon Clausen.
“I have a lot of ideas for Skillogalee and plan to invest substantially in the property over the coming years,” he told The Advertiser.
“Most importantly, however, it’s about respecting the amazing business that Diana and Dave Palmer have created over the last 30 years, and my first task is really getting to understand the current business before making any big changes.”
According to The Advertiser, Mr Clausen is one of Australia’s best-known technology investors. They referred to him as a “tech tycoon”.
Adelaide raised but now based outside Geneva in Switzerland, Mr Clausen runs Startive Ventures, which invests in technology start-ups around the world.
Mr Clausen is planning a “substantial investment” in the property including more accommodation, according to the newspaper report.
Dave and Diana Palmer are retiring.
In November last year Dave told WBM newsletter The Week That Was, “The cellar door and restaurant have been open 364 days a year for 30 years.
“Christmas Day is the only day we close. We closed once for a family funeral and four days for a bushfire – and that is it.
“It is 29 and a half years since we had a blank day at the restaurant with no patrons.
“There wouldn’t be many restaurants in town who could make that claim.”
David said he’d miss it.
“It’s a fabulous environment,” he said.
“We’ve bumped into people in all corners of the globe who have had lunch at Skillogalee.”
Skillogalee is famous for its long lunches and idyllic setting and views.
And good wines, of course.
Recent Comments