With a $30 million war chest, newly formed wine giant Vinarchy will establish its Rowland Flat winery in the Barossa as a “centre of excellence for premium and sparkling winemaking”.
Hardys Vineyard. Photo: Vinarchy.
It will also transition its primary commercial winemaking, packaging and warehousing operations to Berri Estates in the Riverland.
Work done at the St Hallett winery in the Barossa and Hardy’s Tintara winery in McLaren Vale will transition to Rowland Flat for the 2026 and 2027 vintages, respectively.
Adelaide will remain the company’s corporate headquarters.
The “twin-hub structure” at Berri Estates and Rowland Flat “allows us to consolidate our resources and expertise, strengthening the business and ensuring we remain competitive in the face of ongoing challenges in the global wine market,” Vinarchy chief supply officer Joe Russo said.
“Both St Hallett and Hardys are critical brands for Vinarchy, and we recognise the rich local history they have in the Barossa and McLaren Vale.
“While our winemaking will move, our commitment to quality wines, local sourcing and premium cellar door experiences for these brands do not change.
“These wines will be made with the same grapes from the same regions, by the same winemakers, just at another winery.”
As part of the company’s plans, the Rolf Binder and Banrock Station cellar door and restaurant operations will close. Vineyard and viticulture operations at these locations will be unaffected, however.
“We are deeply mindful of the impact these changes may have on our people,” Russo said.
Words: David Simmons
