Nepenthe wine will soon be produced at Australian Vintage Limited’s (AVL) premium Barossa Valley winery, relocating from its Adelaide Hills location.
AVL announced the move is part of the company’s ongoing strategy to grow branded business while maintaining efficient production.
AVL chief executive Dane Hudson reiterated the company’s commitment to driving and developing the premium Nepenthe brand but said the current economic conditions meant there was a need to minimise operational expenditure while maximising quality.
“Transferring operations to our premium Barossa facility will in fact provide greater physical and technical resources for both white and red wine production,” Hudson said.
The company also plans to channel its energies into Nepenthe’s viticulture operation and the Nepenthe Cellar Door at Balhannah will continue to drive trial and awareness as the home of the brand.
Nepenthe general manager, Vicki Greaves, and group viticulturalist, Murray Leake, will continue to develop and promote Nepenthe from their Adelaide Hills base, while winemaker Andre Bondar will be responsible for maintaining the style and quality of Nepenthe wines, joining James Evers and the team in the Barossa.
Meanwhile, Hudson acknowledged the work of Nepenthe chief winemaker, Michael Fogarty, who will be leaving the company to pursuing new directions.