Elderton Wines, Barossa, Australia
Elderton Wines is a proudly family-owned estate at the heart of the Barossa Valley, with roots stretching back to 1894 when the original Nuriootpa vineyard was first planted. The estate was revived in 1979 by Neil and Lorraine Ashmead, who saw potential where others saw dereliction. Their efforts culminated in widespread acclaim, including the coveted Jimmy Watson Trophy before Neil’s passing in 1997. Since then, their sons Cameron and Allister, alongside their spouses Julie and Rebecca, have taken up the reins, ensuring the Elderton name continues to shine. Their stewardship bore fruit early on, with the 2000 Command Shiraz being crowned ‘The World’s Best Shiraz’ at the International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Halliday Wine Companion 5-Star Winery
“Outstanding winery regularly producing wines of exemplary quality and typicity… with a long track record of excellence”
At the core of Elderton’s portfolio are estate-grown wines of pedigree and provenance. The Command Shiraz, from vines planted in 1894, stands as a benchmark for Barossa, while newer additions from vineyards in Greenock, Craneford, and Mengler Hill showcase the depth of the region’s terroir. Their wines display the richness and power expected of Barossa, but with poise, balance, and finesse. These are not blunt instruments, but finely tuned expressions, crafted with low yields, minimal intervention, and a deep respect for vineyard and vintage.
Personally, Elderton has long been one of my favourite Australian producers. They strike that rare balance between quality and price: never overblown, always refined. The wines speak confidently of their origin, but never shout. This thoughtful, measured approach extends beyond what’s in the glass—solar power, rainwater harvesting, and organic farming reflect the Ashmeads' commitment to sustainability and heritage. From the beautifully restored cellar door to their benchmark wines, Elderton remains a beacon of modern Barossa: grounded, genuine, and consistently excellent.
