Respected winemaker Michael Fragos has been appointed CEO and chief winemaker of Haselgrove in McLaren Vale.
He was previously chief winemaker for Chapel Hill, which is part of Endeavour Group. Michael held that position for 22 years, but left recently.
Haselgrove chairman Don Totino made the announcement today.
Michael says he is “delighted” to continue his connection with this “remarkable” wine region.
“McLaren Vale is special for so many reasons.
“It is home to outstanding vineyard sites, breathtaking natural beauty, a pristine coastline and a world-class wine and food culture.
“Above all, it is the people who make this region extraordinary.
“There is a genuine sense of community, and together we share the privilege and responsibility of being custodians of this beautiful place.”
Michael looks forward to the opportunity to work alongside the experienced Haselgrove team including long-term senior winemaker, Andrew Locke.
“I am looking forward to working with Andrew and the talented Haselgrove team to continue nurturing and developing this important McLaren Vale winery,” Michael says.
“Together, we will build on its strong foundations to showcase the character and splendour of this exceptional region through our wines.”
Michael first worked with now co-owners of Haselgrove, Steve Maglieri, Don Luca and Tony Carrocci, at Tatachilla winery in the 1990s.
During this time, he also worked as an advisor to fellow co-owner, Don Totino, as he established his Adelaide Hills vineyard.
As Michael moved on from Tatachilla to Chapel Hill Wines, the relationship turned to that of winemaker and grower.
Blessed
“The timing of this next phase was almost blessed,” Don says.
“When (previous CEO) Christophe Forel decided to make a move to a new industry, at the same time as Michael becoming available, you could say the timing was almost blessed.
“We didn’t hesitate to bring Michael in. We have absolute trust in his expertise and professionalism; he’s going to take Haselgrove to the next level.”
Michael is well-respected for his commitment to the South Australian region, building a close network of growers and fellow producers, along with acting as chair of the McLaren Vale Districts Working Group.
He grew up on a local vineyard and has since worked 37 vintages crafting some of the region’s most celebrated wines.
Michael has won Bushing Monarch at the McLaren Vale Wine Show three times (1997, 1999 and 2010) – one of only three winemakers to achieve this.
He is an avid music fan, his collection of vinyl now numbering more than 1,600.
Haselgrove was established in 1981 with the estate boasting Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon vines dating back more than sixty years.
The current owners Don Totino, Steve Maglieri, Don Luca and Tony Carrocci acquired Haselgrove in 2008, reportedly over a game of cards and “a couple of hearty reds”.
Photo: Michael Fragos with Haselgrove chair Don Totino.
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