In a show of confidence in the future of premium Australian wine, the families behind Wirra Wirra and Ashton Hills have acquired acclaimed Adelaide Hills producer Hahndorf Hill.
Wirra Wirra CEO Matthew Deller MW says the acquisition adds depth to the group’s presence in the Hills, complementing its ownership of Ashton Hills and introducing a winery with a “formidable reputation” for cool-climate white wines.
“It also signals a rare good news story for the Australian wine industry – anchored in premiumisation, regional strength and a long-term commitment to Australian family ownership,” he says.
Founded in 2002 by Larry Jacobs and Marc Dobson, Hahndorf Hill has built a loyal following for its wines of purity, character and precision, most notably its benchmark expressions of Grüner Veltliner.
The six-hectare estate, perched just outside the historic village of Hahndorf, also features a top-ranked cellar door and thriving wine tourism experience.
“At a time when the Australian wine industry is facing real challenges, we’re choosing to invest in quality, authenticity and long-term growth,” Deller says.
“Larry and Marc have created something truly special.
“Hahndorf Hill fits perfectly with our vision for the future.”
In April, Hahndorf Hill’s 2023 Reserve Grüner Veltliner was named Best Wine from Australia at the Frankfurt International Wine Trophy and outshining over 2,300 global entries.
It also took top honours in the Grüner Veltliner category – beating some of the best from Austria and Germany.
“This is not only a proud moment for the Adelaide Hills – it’s a sign that Australian cool-climate white wines can compete with the very best globally,” says Deller.
Jacobs and Dobson will retire from the wine industry following the transition, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering spirit and precision winemaking.
“Marc and I are thrilled that Wirra Wirra will be taking over the reins,” says Larry Jacobs.
“The Wirra Wirra team has all the skills and enthusiasm to take Hahndorf Hill to the next level.”
The Hahndorf Hill portfolio includes four expressions of Grüner Veltliner, a 12-variety white field blend, Rosé, Pinot Grigio, Shiraz, and small-batch reds including Blaufränkisch, St. Laurent and Zweigelt.
The estate’s Austrian-inspired cellar door is ranked the #1 cellar door in the Adelaide Hills on TripAdvisor and offers panoramic views and curated wine experiences.
Hahndorf Hill wines are distributed nationally by Domaine Wine Shippers.
Photo: Matt Deller MW with Larry Jacobs and Marc Dobson.
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