The Auswine Forum

Meant to flag this news from last week:

"I am writing to inform you of a significant change to Domaine A.
Ruth and I have decided, after 29 years on Stoney Vineyard, to sell the business and enjoy some well-earned time to rest, travel and spend time with our family.
My retirement and the decision to sell the business was certainly not an easy one, but from many interested parties I am confident I have chosen the right organisation, winemaker and people to maintain my label’s integrities and qualities. In keeping with my ethos of winemaking and business, this decision had very little to do with money! It was, most importantly, about feeling assured that the legacy I have built will be in the hands of the appropriate custodians.
The new owner is David Walsh, founder of Mona - Museum of Old and New Art and owner of Moorilla Estate. Domaine A will operate as a subsidiary of Moorilla Estate Pty Ltd. Their very capable winemaker Conor Van der Reest will be at the helm, and the business will change hands effective March 1, 2018. I will always be available to Conor and his team for advice if they so desire it, and obviously the nature of my processes mean there are many years of wines made by me yet to be released while Conor has time to establish himself in this “changing of the guard”.
It is business as usual at Domaine A as of March 1, under new management but with existing staff taking on new roles however no orders will leave the vineyard in the week commencing 26th February 2018.
So, most importantly, I thank you. For your ongoing support. For your faith and commitment to the wines and endeavours that have been my passion. For every time you have raised a glass of Domaine A or Stoney Vineyard wines with your families or friends. I know when it is time to sit and reflect, I will raise a glass to all of you. Warmest Regards H. Peter Althaus"

Pretty big news... wonder how this we’ll end up. I’m yet to try Domaine A wines but have heard great things and hence have a 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon waiting in my fridge.

Domains A, Ashton Hills, Main Ridge estate. Cool climate legends. End if an era!

Gosh. I met Peter once or twice at the CD, but never on a formal basis.
He certainly seemed an authoritative figure; temperamentally something of an heir to the John Middleton school of marching to the beat of one's own drum.
Much about the Domaine A operation was unique, I wonder if it will survive, however sympathetic Mr Walsh might be.
cheers,
Graeme

Walsh is a pretty unique character as well, so could be interesting.

I have only had a couple of Domaine A wines and I found them to be stately, elegant and very good, but generally very over priced.

Quite nice wines although can be a little cool. Domestic pricing silly.

Ownership by Walsh long odds to be beneficial.

Smart, well at heel, and appreciates artists - and vignerons would come under that category for him I reckon.