WESTELLA – Willy (1981) and Jacquie Adkins
Can you tell us a little about the history of your family’s involvement in the wine industry? How did it all begin?
We met in 1991, studying wine at Roseworthy Agricultural College. After graduation, we worked in wineries and breweries across the Barossa Valley, Victoria, and the United Kingdom. After searching for many years for an established vineyard to make our own, we decided to change our approach. What we really wanted to make? The answer—Pinot Noir. We found land, planted our chosen clones, and now craft rich, deeply flavoured wines from 100% Pinot Noir.
What makes your wine truly unique, and what are you most proud of in your winemaking journey?
At Westella, we craft wine from 100% Pinot Noir, grown at our family vineyard in Rowella. We are most proud that we started our wine-growing journey from scratch. We made every decision based on what was right for the vineyard, the land, and the wines. We are also incredibly proud that, wherever possible, we make choices that champion Tasmania. From our wines to the designer of our labels, and even the materials from which the Westella Cellar is built, at every turn, we celebrate Tasmania.
What does your connection with the Launceston Grammar community mean to your family and your business?
We are very fortunate to have enjoyed a strong connection with Launceston Grammar that has spanned three generations. However, when it was time to consider schools, Willy was adamant that I should visit for a tour (I hailed from Canberra) and not decide just on family history. I remember being part of a group tour, led by Nicholas Foster. I also clearly recall never being more certain of a significant choice. Our three children, Josie (2018), Sarah (2020), and Ned (2023), were indeed nurtured, challenged, and inspired during their time at Grammar. We could not have been more appreciative of the outdoor education, the rowing program, and the committed, passionate teachers who devoted their time to our children. We’re forever grateful.
Contact Details:
westellavineyard.com.au
114 Westwoods Road, Rowella TAS, 7270
0438 088 564 | wine@westellavineyard.com.au
CHARTLEY ESTATE – Loraine and Peter Kossmann
Can you tell us a little about the history of your family’s involvement in the wine industry? How did it all begin?
We came from different backgrounds—Peter as a commercial diver and myself as a hairdresser and beautician—but our shared love for wine led us to a new adventure in northern Tasmania. In 2000, we purchased a property in Rowella, drawn by its perfect climate for winemaking. I spent five years studying the craft, eventually becoming a viticulturist, and today, we tend to 12 hectares of vines, nurturing each one to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
What makes your wine truly unique, and what are you most proud of in your winemaking journey?
Over the years, we’ve had the honour of entering our wines into various prestigious competitions, both in Australia and internationally. We’ve been very fortunate to receive numerous accolades at these competitions. One of our proudest achievements was being awarded the title of ‘Best Dry Riesling in the World.’ These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put into our winemaking, and they reinforce our commitment to crafting exceptional wines that stand out on the global stage, made right here in northern Tasmania.
What does your connection with the Launceston Grammar community mean to your family and your business?
During this time, our daughter Harriet (2010) attended Launceston Grammar for 13 wonderful years. She embraced all the opportunities the school had to offer, participating in a wide range of activities that helped shape her into the confident and capable young woman she is today. We’ve always been grateful for the supportive and enriching environment that Grammar provided her, allowing her to thrive both academically and personally.
Contact Details:
chartleyestatevineyard.com.au
38 Blackwood Hills Road, Rowella, TAS 7270
0418 124 690
