As Bakkheia Wines approaches its twentieth year of grape growing and winemaking, it must be honest about its future as vignerons. Owners Michael and Ilonka consider their efforts and hard work which has produced a marvelous legacy and brand. The pair don’t want to see the winery ‘die on the vine’, but the couple are not ready to retire from the land as the location and environment is fulfilling and spiritual.Not having any children (by choice) and having nieces and nephews wanting to create their own paths, a dilemma for handing over the reins has occurred. Naturally one would assume the sale of Bakkheia Wines but Michael and Ilonka are opting for a different pathway, with the couple’s succession planning being considered long and hard.

Eight years ago, three French backpackers arrived at the front gate of Bakkheia Wines around Christmas. Ilonka gave them a warm welcome, and invited them to stay without any long-term work, though with some scope for introductions in the local orchardist network. It turns out French from the south are honest, hardworking, personable and have a long-term desire to enter the wine industry. Fast forward eight years and Franck, one of the backpackers, is now a permanent resident and employee of Bakkheia Wines. He is now on the pathway to becoming a winemaker in his own right with his sights firmly set on carrying on the legacy in the future. Franck and his professional sommelier partner, Yu Kurosawa are firmly ensconced into the future success of Bakkehia Wines.

www.bakkheia.com.au