Grant Burge

Grant Burge is a fifth-generation Barossa vigneron and winemaker. Throughout his career, Grant has been one of the most respected and innovative forces in the Australian wine industry.

The history of the Burge family and their long association with winemaking in the region can be traced back to March 1855, when noted tailor John Burge immigrated to the Barossa from Hillcot, near Pewsey in Wiltshire, England with his wife Eliza and their two sons. John worked as a winemaker at Hillside Vineyards and his love of viticulture was passed onto his son Meshach, who continued the tradition making his first wine in 1865, whilst becoming a prominent community leader. Meshach married Emma in 1883 and they had eight children. First-born Percival established the Wilsford Winery near Lyndoch in 1928. Percival had two sons, Noel and Colin, and Colin and his wife Nancy had one son, Grant.

Wine Philosophy

“Fine wines are born in the vineyards and the vineyards are the cradle of wine quality.” Grant Burge

Grant believes if the right varieties are grown in the right soils, and vines are managed to produce low to moderate yields, the vines will produce the premium quality fruit needed to produce exceptional wines. With the combination of the best terroirs, the best climate and the best winemaking techniques, the natural result is the best wine.

“This business is in my blood. I have a strong winemaking heritage and I want to hand down my knowledge. I believe in preserving and maintaining our Barossa legacy and tradition to make sure my young winemakers understand how to make top wines into the future.” Grant Burge

The Barossa is famous around the world for its premium table wines and Grant Burge is one of the most recognised winemakers from the region. The region consists of two distinct valleys. The Barossa Valley floor is 200–250 metres above sea level, with rich, red-brown, deep, alluvial soils ideal for red wine grape growing. This contrasts the high altitude Eden Valley at 500 metres above sea level with rocky, acidic and grey schist soils, ideal for cold climate viticulture. Together these geographical indications make up the Barossa. The Barossa is widely recognised as Australia’s most varied district for premium grape growing. It features cold, wet winters and generous spring rains to set-up moisture reserves. During summer and autumn the weather dries off, providing warm and moderate conditions ideal for ripening grapes. This produces the full, generous varietal flavours the district is renowned for. Grant Burge has a profound understanding and respect for his land, and is a proud ambassador and caretaker of the Barossa. He personally oversees all aspects of wine production from vineyard management and maintenance through to winemaking procedures to ensure longevity for generations to come.