In 2009, the Australian wine landscape was changed forever when 10 of Australia’s oldest family owned, multi-generational wine businesses came together to form Australia’s First Families of Wine.
In 2009, the Australian wine landscape was changed forever when 10 of Australia’s oldest family owned, multi-generational wine businesses came together to form Australia’s First Families of Wine.
A unique collaboration of like-minded families, the intention was to change the narrative about the history, provenance and quality of Australian premium wine, telling the stories behind these families that form the golden thread that connects them.
Since then, Australia’s First Families of Wine has travelled the globe as a collective to share their vinous tales; tales of tribulation and success, experience and commitment. Ultimately it is the passion of over 48 generations of these families and 1310 years of collective winemaking experience that has helped to shape Australia’s wine narrative.
And so the story continues, with the Next Generation of Australia’s First Families of Wine a vital connection to the future as they bring their own thinking and innovation, thoughts and ideas to the family table, underpinned by a rootstock of history, iconic provenance and exceptional quality.
FROM THE CHAIRMAN
“I am delighted to be the sixth Chair of this unique group and am looking forward to being at the helm as we head into our 10th anniversary in 2019. I want to really focus on the core values of Australia’s First Families of Wine and what makes family wineries special. To me, this means highlighting our authenticity. We all live our family values, are backed by fascinating stories, we care for their environment because we are the custodians for the future and we take this role seriously. We all have iconic vineyards to tend and we produce premium wines showing a true sense of place. We are opening doors internationally for premium Australian wine by showcasing our best, promoting a training ground and network for the next generation as part of our family succession programs. We have always been friends as well as ‘family’ and the last decade has brought us even closer as we have experienced the fun of working as younger and older generations together.”
Stephen Henschke
6th chair of affw