Bannockburn

For decades, Bannockburn has stood as a cornerstone of Australian fine wine. The story began in 1974 when the visionary Stuart Hooper discovered and planted the site, laying the foundation for what would become a modern icon. A few years later, in 1978, the great Gary Farr joined as winemaker, bringing with him a Burgundian sensibility that would forever shape the estate’s trajectory.

Current winemaker Matt Holmes carries the torch with measured intent. After making the 2005 vintage following Farr’s departure, Holmes returned in 2015 to take the reins from Michael Glover. His approach is rooted in a deep respect for place, expressed through flourishing organic practices that foster healthy vines and pristine fruit. Under his watch, the Chardonnay gleams with crystalline acidity and fine oak restraint. The Pinot Noir has found new clarity, thanks in part to earlier bottling that captures a lithe, mineral-driven beauty.

Holmes isn’t alone in shaping this evolution. Veteran viticulturist Lucas Grigsby, with over 30 years on the tools, works in lockstep with Holmes, nurturing the land through composting, straw mulching, and inter-row cover crops. This sustainable philosophy carries through into the winery, where wild yeast and minimal handling allow the vineyard to speak fluently.

Beyond its core range, Bannockburn’s soul lies in its single-site expressions. The S.R.H. Chardonnay - named for the founder - whispers of ancient marine sediments, its stony edge a perfect foil to concentrated fruit. The Serré vineyard, established in 1984 and planted in tight rows à la Grand Cru Burgundy, remains a benchmark. Then there’s De la Terre, planted at 10,000 vines per hectare, pushing what’s possible for power and finesse in Australian Pinot.

Each bottle from Bannockburn is more than just wine - it’s a layered, living narrative. A tale of site, time, and tenacity. Here, Burgundian influence doesn’t mimic it merges with Australian terroir taking the lead. 

Halliday Wine Companion Top 100 Wineries 2023
#28: Bannockburn Vineyards

"Bannockburn has been celebrated for its Burgundian varieties and the degree of complexity and depth achieved in both chardonnay and pinot noir. With five pinots produced, the producer has style and diversity of the grape well covered. However, this is not to dismiss the quality of its lively, spice-fuelled shiraz, something of an unsung hero.” Jeni Port, Wine Companion

“These are seriously good wines and stylistically nothing like the Bannockburns of old.” Jane Faulkner, The Age

“The late Stuart Hooper had a deep love for the wines of Burgundy, and was able to drink the best. When he established Bannockburn, it was inevitable that pinot noir and chardonnay would form the major part of the plantings, with lesser amounts of riesling, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, shiraz and merlot. Bannockburn is still owned by members of the Hooper family, who continue to respect Stuart’s strong belief in making wines that reflect the flavours of the certified-organic vineyard.”

★★★★★ Halliday Wine Companion