Flinders Run Takes Part In Special Adelaide Show Episode About Lack Of Leadership In The Australian Wine Sector

In episode 392 of The Adelaide Show, Steve Davis gathered with wine industry experts in the Barossa Valley to discuss significant challenges and opportunities facing South Australian wineries. Amidst the backdrop of ongoing vintage activities, the guests shared insights into the pressures small family-run wineries face, particularly from large corporate entities and inadequate industry support.

Key concerns highlighted during the discussion included the ineffectiveness of Wine Australia in protecting smaller vineyards from predatory corporate practices and the impact of supermarket chains creating “boutique” wine labels that crowd out genuine small producers. There was a strong consensus that these issues not only undermine the authenticity of the Australian wine market but also erode the foundation of knowledge and best practices within the sector.

Key Messages In The Debate

A critical point of debate was the need for a classification system to ensure transparency and quality control within the industry. This system would help consumers distinguish between authentic boutique wines and mass-produced varieties that merely pose as such. The guests argued that without such measures, the unique character and diversity of true boutique wines risk being diluted in a market dominated by corporate interests.

Emanuel Skorpos, the principal vintner at Flinders Run, played a pivotal role in bringing the guests together for this episode, highlighting his commitment to fostering dialogue and action within the wine community. His contributions were not only organisational but also deeply insightful, as he echoed the concerns about the need for regulatory reforms and stronger advocacy for small wineries.

The other guests were Paul Georgiadis who, among other things, is the founder and owner of Paulmara Estates, and Dan Eggleton, the cofounder and winemaker at Ben Murray Wines and Principal and Founder of Vinous Consulting.

The episode not only served as a platform for airing grievances but also as a call to action for the industry and consumers alike. It underscored the necessity for consumers to support small wineries and for regulatory bodies to step up and protect the heritage and integrity of the Australian wine industry.

Listen To The Discussion

In summary, The Adelaide Show‘s wine episode, facilitated by Emanual Skorpos, brought to light the pressing issues facing South Australian winemakers. It emphasised the urgent need for a robust classification system and more effective industry governance to preserve the authenticity and viability of small, family-run wineries against the backdrop of increasing corporate dominance.

You can search for and play it in your favourite podcast app, or use the player, below.