Our philosophy

Forged in France

In 1977, Bill set off on a 4-month cycling trip around the great wine regions of France and Germany. Travelling alone and staying in youth hostels, he cycled through the Loire Valley, Chablis, Burgundy, Alsace, Rhine Valley, Mosel Valley and Champagne. The famous vineyards, colourful vignerons, the old cellars, wonderful wines – such a rich experience.

In particular, he was struck by the deep connection that the French wine families had with their vineyards, which in many cases had been family- owned for many generations. The vineyards were often small, but lovingly tended, the owners having long worked out that great wine is made in the vineyard. The passion ran deep.

From that time forward Bill had one long-term ambition: to own a vineyard one day. That day came in May 2013 when Bill and his wife Jane purchased a vineyard in the highlands of Orange. Colmar Estate was born.

Our philosophy at Colmar Estate was forged in France all those year ago – family ownership, single vineyard wines, reverence for the fruit and a quality focus.