Lewis White has been appointed winemaker at Zema Estate in Coonawarra, marking the next chapter in the winery’s 44-year history while reinforcing its long-standing commitment to regional knowledge, continuity, and hands-on family involvement.
Since releasing its first vintage in 1982, Zema Estate has worked with just four winemakers – Tom Simons, Greg Clayfield, Joe Cory and now Lewis White – all of whom have lived and worked locally, contributing directly to the strength and evolution of the Coonawarra wine community.
Lewis joins Zema Estate following more than a decade in Australian winemaking, most recently as head winemaker at Rymill Coonawarra, a role he has held since 2020.
A highly regarded cool-climate winemaker, Lewis holds a Bachelor of Wine Science from Charles Sturt University and has worked across Coonawarra, Tasmania, McLaren Vale, the Hunter Valley, the Adelaide Hills and internationally in Sussex, UK.
Lewis said he was drawn to Zema Estate’s clear sense of identity and long-term approach.
“Zema Estate has a strong reputation in Coonawarra, and I’ve always respected the quality and consistency of the wines,” Lewis said.
“It’s an exciting opportunity, and I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into the 2026 vintage in a few months.”
At Rymill Coonawarra, Lewis oversaw end-to-end winemaking operations, harvest scheduling and production planning, and managed contract winemaking clients.
He has also contributed to the wider wine community as an Associate Judge at regional wine shows, including the Limestone Coast, Riverland and Adelaide Hills Wine Shows.
The appointment reinforces continuity at Zema Estate, with the Zema family remaining hands-on in vineyard management and winemaking direction, as they have since the winery’s founding.
Nick Zema said the decision reflected the winery’s long-held belief in nurturing local expertise and maintaining strong ties to the region.
“In 44 years, Zema Estate has had just four winemakers, following the first 18 years of our family making the wines ourselves,” Nick said.
“Each winemaker has been a local, deeply connected to Coonawarra.
“Lewis brings a strong understanding of the region, and his approach aligns perfectly with our philosophy.
“The family remains closely involved in vineyard and winemaking decisions, ensuring continuity as we move into the next chapter.”
Lewis will oversee winemaking across Zema Estate’s Estate and Family Selection ranges, as the winery continues to focus on estate-grown fruit, careful vineyard management and patient bottle ageing.
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