Emanuel was born in Port Pine, on the east coast of the Spencer Gulf in South Australia. The eldest of three boys, he grew up in a traditional Greek family and from an early age showed an interest in working the land. After moving to the city, Emanuel completed a mechanical apprenticeship while working alongside his family in the petrol station industry.

However, Emanuel then embarked on an entirely new path after a trip to Greece in 1991. He made a long-desired move into viticulture and horticulture, eventually establishing the vineyards in the Southern Flinders Ranges after learning more about the region from Ian Smith, Vineyard Manager and Viticulturist for Leasingham Wines.

Drawing on his 25+ years in the industry, Emanuel’s day-to-day work continues to be focussed on developing the vineyards with the vineyard team, along with working closely with the winemaking team. This is Emanuel’s Commitment to establishing the Southern Flinders Ranges vineyards and Winery.

Every new vine planting at Flinders Run is the result of extensive research and work with scientists and industry specialists. While older regions have meandered their way to specialising in particular varieties, Emanuel and his team is taking a structured and evidence-based approach to the selection of grapes best suited to the Southern Flinders Wine Region.

By responding to the findings of science, Flinders Run is laying down a foundation of optimal grape varieties and specific clones to ensure this new wine region takes a “great leap forward” (his marketer wants to call it a “grape leap forward”) thanks to a harmonious blending of rich soils, vibrant climate, perfectly-suited fruit, and advanced winemaking techniques.

While Emanuel’s passion for the brand and the business has him travelling the globe marketing the Flinders Run story, he is equally committed to flying the flag as the ambassador for this young, emerging wine region; the beautiful Southern Flinders Ranges of South Australia.