Wine industry veterans recognised

 

Three wine industry icons who have mad a major impact in Coonawarra and further afield have been honoured by their peers. 

The Coonawarra Vignerons this weekend named Coonawarra’s newest Patrons, at a gala dinner at Parker Coonawarra Estate. 

Sue Hodder, Ian Hollick and Allen Jenkins were formally awarded the honour, recognised their years of service and outstanding contributions, promotion and development of the Coonawarra Wine Region.

“The honour of Patron of Coonawarra is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contribution, commitment and service to the Coonawarra wine region over many years, above and beyond the requirements of their own job or business,” said Coonawarra Vignerons president Dan Redman. 

“Their energy and enthusiasm for the region is infectious, with an open-minded attitude for the future and a willingness to see change for the betterment of the region as a whole. As leaders in their respective fields they’ve served as mentors, offering guidance throughout their careers to many of today’s wine leaders.” 

In inducting three new Patrons, the Coonawarra Vignerons also recognised their past Patrons: Eric Brand (deceased), Ken Ward (deceased), Colin Ross-Smith (deceased), Colin Kidd (deceased), and current Patrons Doug Balnaves, Doug Bowen, Wendy Hollick, Bruce Redman, Michelle Stehbens and Greg Clayfield, all of whom were in attendance on the night.

“Each recipient has demonstrated an enormous effort in elevating Coonawarra and contributing to the wine region’s success," said Redman. "They are all truly worthy of this accolade.” 

Sue Hodder has been at Wynns Coonawarra Estate for over 30 years and in 1998 she became the winery’s first female senior winemaker. She has won myriad awards. 

Hollick arrived in Coonawarra to work for Mildara Wines in 1972 and established a vineyard with his former wife Wendy two years later. Hollick Estate twice won the coveted Jimmy Watson Trophy.  

Allen Jenkins was appointed Wynns viticulturist in 2001, and for the next 20 years was a strong contributor to the Coonawarra and Limestone Coast wine regions.

Hodder, Hollick and Jenkins were each presented with a badge and framed certificate commemorating their induction.