Margaret River mourns wine visionary

The wine community in Western Australia is mourning the death of visionary Dr John Gladstones, whose research led to the founding of the Margaret River wine region over 50 years ago.

Gladstones' two seminal research papers in 1965 and 1966 were fundamental to the foundation of the Margaret River Wine Region.

Gladstones drew parallels between the climate of Margaret River and that of Bordeaux, and inspired the first generation of winemakers to plant vineyards.

Over a half-century on, the region continues to prove its perfect suitability for viticulture, and has established a significant international reputation.

Gladstones, who died at the age of 92, was one of Australia’s most influential agronomists and in 1986 was made a member of the Order of Australia.

He was the recipient of the Margaret River Wine Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. The eastern boundary of the Margaret River Wine Region Geographic Indication (GI) is named in his honour, with the 'Gladstones Line' running north to south at longitude 115°18'E.

Throughout the history of the Margaret River Wine industry, Dr Gladstones was a source of intelligence and an ally to most of our region's greatest achievers, the Margaret River Wine Associated said in a statement.

"His commitment and enthusiasm to excellence in Margaret River wine was unwavering - in 2017 he donated his library to the Margaret River Wine Association, to support the current and next generation."