The Grapevine: Wine industry updates from South Australia
In this edition of The Grapevine: two wine titans are recognised, fresh research into wine on-premises and a new campaign gains momentum. Plus the latest wine industry events.
- Wine titans celebrated in Adelaide
- SA Rootlings state champs revealed
- New research into wine on-premise
- Wine Australia campaign gains momentum
- Y Series’ new comp
SA Rootlings state champs revealed
Five South Australians will be State Champions for the Rootlings Wine Industry Youth Network, alongside representatives from around the country.
The Rootlings program was established six months ago by the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology and Wine Australia to engage young people in the industry.
Rootlings national project officer Jenna Vaughan said the program was a “dynamic network dedicated to fostering relationships, facilitating professional development, and promoting continuous learning among young professionals in the wine industry”.
“The enthusiasm of our State Champions is a clear testament to the passion and dedication young people have for shaping the wine industry,” Vaughan said.
“Throughout 2025 and beyond, our State Champions will be instrumental in activating in-region opportunities. These initiatives will provide young professionals with invaluable chances to learn collaboratively and grow professionally, ensuring a vibrant and innovative future for the wine sector.”
The South Australian Rootlings State Champions:
- Sarah Lavelle, DTC Manager for Seven Hill Cellars, Clare Valley
- Maddie LeMire, Winemaker at Balnaves of Coonawarra, Coonawarra
- Alexandra Alavoine, Winemaker at Kirrihill, Clare Valley
- Erin Armstrong, Assistant Winemaker at Hardy’s Tintara, McLaren Vale
- Michelle Li, Winemaker at Knappstein Wines from Clare Valley
To view profiles on the individual State Champions, visit the Rootlings website: State Chapters — Rootlings: Australian Wine Youth Network.
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New research into wine on-premise
Wine Australia has commissioned Adelaide-based Square Holes to conduct new research into the role of wine on-premise in Australia.
While interest in wine hasn’t disappeared, wine is losing ground to more dynamic and customisable beverages like cocktails, Square Holes found.
Further, younger drinkers have a complex relationship to wine; one built around setting, while perceived cost, complexity and limited variety are the leading deterrents for wine consumption.
The report recommends venues simplify wine experiences and improve staff confidence to overcome capability gaps.
“Wineries can work with venues to train staff to make wine simple and inviting, equipping them with the tools to confidently recommend wines in plain, relatable terms and connect them to menu items,” the report reads.
According to the report, modern consumers want more than just a product: “they’re seeking meaning, connection and authenticity”.
“While wine is rich in heritage, it often struggles to engage younger audiences who prioritise relatability and lifestyle over tradition. Spirits brands have been more successful in this space, leveraging culture, storytelling and digital engagement to stay top of mind,” the report reads.
“Customers will pay for wine when it feels worth it. That means affordable options or elevated experiences. Simplicity, flexibility and staff support are key to unlocking trial and loyalty, as are a solid wine selection (value to premium, by the glass and bottles), menus and otherwise. These aspects can help ensure the experience lives up to the cost. ”
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The Penfolds Showcase: Penfolds is hosting The Penfolds Showcase experience at its historic Magill Estate on Sunday, August 10, 2025, to celebrate the release of The Penfolds Collection 2025. Gala Dinner – South Australian Premier’s Business and Export Awards: The South Australian Business Chamber and the Government of South Australia are hosting the Gala Dinner for the South Australian Premier’s Business and Export Awards at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Friday, August 29, 2025. |
Wine Australia campaign gains momentum
Retailers and producers are getting behind a new campaign designed to reconnect Australian consumers with wine.
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The ‘We make a wine for that’ campaign will launch on 1 August. Endeavour Group has committed to support the campaign and will host activations in Dan Murphy’s and BWS stores.
Independent retailers such as Fassina and Ritchies are also on board, Wine Australia said.
Endeavour Group general manager Andrew Shedden said the company was “incredibly enthusiastic” about the campaign.
“Its message deeply resonates with our commitment to connecting consumers with the incredible diversity and quality of Australian wine for every occasion imaginable,” he said.
“The timing of this national push is incredibly relevant as we see consumers actively seeking versatile and approachable options, and a unified, sector-wide approach like this is precisely what’s needed to collectively elevate the profile and appeal of Australian wine at home.”
Y Series’ new comp
The Hill-Smith family’s Y Series label is giving customers the chance to win one of three $10,000 cash prizes.
The ‘$10k Your Way’ national competition will run from September through to December 2025.
Eligible Y series products – including the Y Series Pinot Grigio – will be in-store from 1 September.
Wine titans celebrated in Adelaide
At a ceremony at Adelaide Town Hall on Sunday, the winners of the prestigious Maurice O’Shea Award and the McWilliam’s Excellence in Action Award were unveiled at the Australian Wine Industry Awards.
Wine expert, historian and author of The Australian Ark Andrew Caillard received the Maurice O’Shea Award in honour of his 45-year career in the Australian wine industry.
Viticulturist, advisor and Vinya Vella owner Dylan Grigg was awarded the McWilliam’s Excellence in Action Award for his work in the research and protection of Australian old vines.
Caillard paid tribute to “the so many colleagues and friends, past and present, who have made a wonderful difference to our cause for Australian wine and the Australian wine community”.
“Hopefully this will be seen as being symbolic; that working in wine is a vocation – not a job – and that making a difference of some sort takes time, requires patience and demands collaboration with others.”
Grigg’s award was created by McWilliam’s Wines owners the Calabria Family Wine Group.
On accepting the award he thanked his “wonderful mentors…. a couple of which are in this room”.
“This award recognise excellence in action, and for me that action has always been driven by curiosity and learning,” he said.
