Us

We founded Ainsworth & Snelson back in 2001. We shared a vision, which was to make ‘handcrafted wines of true regional expression” This was as a result of Brett’s lengthy experiences, touring and working in vineyards of Europe and Latin America – an education in understanding the style of wines produced from different regions, developed within a tradition which produces wines with elegance, restraint and balance. This education has had a huge impact in his winemaking techniques, bringing together old world elegance with the richness and opulence of Australian fruit.

We both love wine and share enormous passion in exploring them. For us, it’s not about the obvious choices, but rather working that much harder to produce elegant wines which WE love to drink, striving to do nothing other than make the best possible wine we can from these classic grapes.

How we make our wine

We think that what makes us stand out is our belief in the concept of “Australian terroir”. Just like the old world, Australia has incredible geographical diversity, which allows the optimum interplay between climate, soil and terrain.

Our wines display the unique characteristics of the region and personality of each vintage whilst keeping true to the integrity of the grape variety. We use traditional winemaking techniques with emphasis on expression and balance.

And, as we believe in the rare harmony found between certain regions and varietals, have composed a range of quintessential regional classics:

. Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon

. Barossa Valley Shiraz

. Yarra Valley Chardonnay

. Clare Valley Riesling (first release Nov. 05)

We love the fact that they are all different, and will continue to be as we allow the personality each year to be brought into the wine.

We were delighted that our inspiration has been acknowledged by a significant number of accolades and awards.

The authoritative Australian wine writer James Halliday has rated us as a 5-star winery.
 

This means:
“ Outstanding winery capable of producing wines of very high quality and did so this year ”

A Unique Partnership

The elements conspired to bring two people together from different sides of the world that shared a passion about great wines, and wanted to create their own.

Gregg has spent many years in the international wine & spirits business, working for famous names in wines and spirits worldwide. This included a stint in France working at Moët & Chandon and spells at Diageo and Allied Domecq.

After 12 years in Exercise Physiology, Brett followed his true passion: the making of wine. Lengthy experiences across Europe, Latin America and Australia allowed him to hone his craft to the extent that he was confident enough to develop his own wines. He extends his experience every year, with an annual pilgrimage to various old world vineyards.