The legendary Rutherglen winemaker Mick (Charles Henry) Morris OAM has passed away at the age of 98.
The fourth-generation winemaker at Morris of Rutherglen, Mick had only recently celebrated his birthday surrounded by family.
Mick was one of the Australian wine industry’s most respected figures.
He was the first family winemaker at Morris of Rutherglen to be university educated and returned to the winery to commence his first official vintage in 1953.
Mick’s son David and grandson Madden said, “For all his achievements and honours, what those who knew Mick will remember most was the man himself.
“Mick was a fine, humble, immensely talented and extraordinarily generous person.”
Jeni Port remembered Mick as a true legend of the Australian wine industry.
“Mick capitalised on the work of previous generations of Morris winemakers and set Morris of Rutherglen on the path to becoming one of the world’s great fortified producers,” Jeni posted on Facebook.
“A visit to see Mick always turned into an adventure.
“With glass in hand we would set off and just wander, stopping beside a dusty demijohn near a door or beaten old cask which he would open and we would share a glass.
“Outsiders had no idea what they were going to taste but Mick knew.
“And we would do that for an afternoon and just talk and taste. So special.
“Rest in peace, Mick.”
Last Friday, Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Topaque won the JCM Fornachon Memorial Perpetual Trophy for Best Fortified Wine at the Sydney Royal Wine Show.
“This wine was one of Mick’s great passions, and the recognition felt like a fitting tribute to a man whose extraordinary talent and dedication were reflected in the countless awards and accolades earned by his wines throughout his career,” Casella Family Brands said in a statement.
“Mick was so important to Australian wine on so many levels.
“Over a lifetime dedicated to his craft, he made an enduring contribution to the evolution and success of the Australian wine industry.
“His influence extended far beyond Rutherglen, helping shape Australian wine’s reputation both at home and around the world.”
Established in 1859, Morris winery is one of the most acclaimed fortified producers in the world.
Mick retired in 1993 at the age of 65, handing the reins to eldest son, David.
Casella bought Morris of Rutherglen from Pernod Ricard Winemakers in 2016.
John Casella said at the time, “I’m delighted to welcome Morris Wines into the Casella family, particularly due to our longstanding relationship with the Morris family, which goes back 50 years to when my father supplied grapes to their former Griffith winery.
“Morris Wines is an iconic Australian winery and one of the greatest fortified wineries in the world, with over 150 years of history and winemaking tradition.
“I believe we are well placed to build on the strength of the brand and cellar door experience to ensure Morris Wines continues its legacy.”
A memorial service to celebrate Mick’s life will be held on Tuesday 1 September.
Photo: Mick Morris with son David and grandson Madden.
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