Wine Society Celebrated Winemaker Inducted into Esteemed Barossa Wine Society
Like any venerable patron society, The Barons of Barossa blend ceremony, heritage, and regional pride into a unique and unmistakable presence. Their traditional regalia is instantly recognisable: deep red and gold robes symbolising prosperity and tradition, complemented by a gleaming silver tastevin that hangs from each Baron’s neck. This small, bowl-shaped tasting cup—originating in 15th-century France—reflects the society’s historical link to Europe’s oldest wine brotherhoods. Much more than ornamental, the tastevin symbolises the continuity of winemaking culture, honouring the centuries-old rituals that have shaped global wine appreciation. As the Barons of Barossa celebrate their 50th year, this emblem feels especially poignant, underscoring a half-century of service to one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.
Founded in 1975 by a group of pioneering South Australian wine leaders, The Barons of Barossa was conceived as both an honour society and a philanthropic guardian of the Barossa Valley. Over the decades, the organisation has developed into an influential body of 100 members—individuals selected not only for excellence in winemaking and viticulture but also for their contributions to gastronomy, regional heritage, community leadership, and the arts. Members are nominated and inducted based on sustained service and exceptional impact, making the honour one of the most respected within Australia’s wine community.
One of the Barons’ most recognised contributions to regional culture is their stewardship of the annual Declaration of Vintage. Held each February in the Tanunda town square, the event signals the beginning of the Barossa’s grape harvest and reflects traditions shared with Europe’s great winegrowing regions. In a ceremony filled with pageantry, symbolism, and community involvement, the Barons proclaim the start of the new vintage—an announcement eagerly anticipated by winemakers, growers, and wine lovers alike. The tradition reinforces the Barossa’s agricultural identity and highlights the region’s deep intergenerational ties to the land.
This year, the Barons of Barossa welcomed a new cohort of distinguished members during a weekend ceremony at The Barossa Cellar, a landmark that itself stands as a testament to the community’s vision for the future. Among the four new inductees was Marie, a respected winemaker whose career reflects dedication, innovation, and a profound connection to the region. She joins other notable Barons, including TWE’s own Baron Shavaughn Wells, further strengthening the network of leaders guiding the Barossa’s growth and reputation.
Marie’s journey in the Barossa began in 2006 when she joined the Wolf Blass winemaking team. Over the past nineteen years, she has established herself as one of Australia’s most talented and influential Riesling specialists. Her meticulous approach to grape selection, her intuitive understanding of the region’s microclimates, and her commitment to quality have garnered widespread recognition. These achievements culminated most recently in her being named the 2024 Barossa Winemaker of the Year, a prestigious honour that highlights both her technical skill and her creative influence within the industry.
Beyond her winemaking accomplishments, Marie has been deeply engaged in community initiatives and professional development programs. She has served for several years on the Committee of the Barossa Wine Show, one of the region’s most significant industry events, and took on the role of Chair in 2023. Her involvement has helped strengthen the show’s reputation for excellence and ensure that it remains a platform for innovation and collaboration among winemakers. Marie is also a graduate of the acclaimed Len Evans Tutorial, often described as Australia’s most elite wine education experience. Participation in this program is highly competitive, and its alumni are recognised as leaders shaping the future of Australian wine.
Reflecting on her induction into the Barons of Barossa, Marie expressed deep gratitude and a sense of privilege. She emphasised that the honour carries both personal and professional meaning, tying together her love for the region, her respect for its traditions, and her desire to contribute to its future.
“This recognition feels really special, not only as a winemaker but as someone who feels passionately about the Barossa as a region and community,” she said. “The Barons’ work in preserving and promoting our wine and culture for future generations is something I truly admire, and I’m proud to play a part in that legacy.”
She also shared how meaningful it was to celebrate the moment surrounded by her family, colleagues, and mentors—people whose support has helped shape her journey over nearly two decades. The induction evening, set against the backdrop of The Barossa Cellar’s impressive architecture and surrounded by “many renowned bottles of the Barossa’s finest wines,” created an atmosphere of gratitude, pride, and shared joy.
Marie’s induction is more than a recognition of past accomplishments; it highlights her ongoing contribution to the Barossa’s future. The region’s winemaking landscape continues to evolve, shaped by new technologies, sustainability practices, climate challenges, and shifting consumer preferences. Leaders like Marie play an essential role in guiding the industry forward by mentoring emerging winemakers, championing quality standards, and fostering collaboration among growers and producers.
The Barons of Barossa themselves have long emphasised the importance of stewardship—of both the land and the culture that defines the region. Their philanthropic initiatives support local education, viticultural research, historical preservation projects, and community programs that strengthen the Barossa’s social fabric. By welcoming individuals who embody these values, the society ensures its mission will continue well into the future.
Marie’s commitment to these ideals is clear. Whether through her involvement in wine judging, her leadership in industry organisations, or her advocacy for sustainable viticulture and regional storytelling, she exemplifies the next generation of Barossa leaders—those who balance respect for tradition with a forward-thinking mindset.
As the Barons of Barossa celebrate their 50th anniversary, milestones such as Marie’s induction underscore the vitality and resilience of the Barossa wine community. Her career and contributions reflect the qualities that have long set the region apart: craftsmanship, collaboration, pride, and a deep connection to place. Her new role within the society strengthens its mission and symbolises the continuation of a legacy built over half a century.
In many ways, Marie’s story mirrors the broader narrative of the Barossa itself—a region rooted in history yet constantly evolving, guided by people whose passion ensures its wines, culture, and traditions will remain cherished for generations to come.
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