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VICTORIA’S oldest family owned winery and vineyard is celebrating its 160th anniversary in 2020 Tahbilk aims to make a noise about the milestone. Established in 1860 and situated in the Nagambie Lakes region of Victoria, the name Tahbilk means “place of many waterholes”.
Tahbilk’s water system is a vital contributor to the viticultural conditions that exist on the estate, creating a unique and valuable mesoclimate. As custodians of some of the oldest shiraz vines in the world, planted in 1860, Tahbilk plays an important role in the preservation of Australia, and the globe’s, vinous history. Tahbilk’s contribution to its local community and the broader wine community is unquestioned and as an iconic destination, Tahbilk continues to be a beacon for wine tourism.
An ongoing plan to extend and develop its tourism experience with upgrades to its cellar door and vineyard experiences are approved and happening right now. Tahbilk’s commitment to the environment and sustainability remain at the forefront of the Purbrick family’s ethos. They have overseen the redevelopment of the internal wetlands precinct over the past 25 years at a substantial financial investment by the family.
Tahbilk has also been accredited as a CarboNZero operation since 2012 and this obvious passion for the environment continues under the keen eye of fifth-generation Purbrick, Hayley. With a year of domestic and international activity planned to celebrate their 160th milestone, the family also has an eye to 2025 which will herald a century of Purbrick family ownership, another significant anniversary on the horizon.
Current CEO and fourth-generation family member Alister Purbrick said, “We are delighted to celebrate our 160th anniversary in 2020 and have a full year of activities planned.
“Family, our wines and a sense of place are at the heart of our story as we look ahead to 2025 as our next big milestone. Our 160th anniversary gives a respectful nod to the past and a view to the future as we transition the next generation of Purbrick family members to the forefront of our proud family brand.”
Hayley Purbrick, fifth-generation family member, has overseen Tahbilk’s environmental strategy in her role as the Environment, Business Improvement and Digital Content Manager.
“I’m incredibly proud of my family’s immense contribution to the Australian wine landscape and we take this knowledge and experience forward into this fast-moving and modern age,” she said. “I look forward to our next chapter with all the passion and enthusiasm of my forebears. Bring it on!” See www.tahbilk.com.au for more information.