Winemaker of the Month

Meet a different Winemaker every month ...

Learn about them and their lifestyle ...

Ron Leibich - LeibichWien - Barossa Valley

LeibichWein is a family owned and operated boutique winery and vineyard situated on the easterly slopes of the Barossa Valley Ranges in Rowland Flat, established in 1992.  The family have been grapegrowers and winemakers in the Barossa since 1919.  Today the family own over 60 acres of vines.  Ron has established himself as a producer of exceptionally rich and concentrated Barossa red wines and well as supremely good value aged fortified blends.  He has over 35 vintages winemaking experience in the Barossa after graduating from Roseworthy College in 1969. 

What was your inspiration?      

What are the benefits of being a winemaker in Oz?

It's a challenge to continue growing and making the quality wine for which the Barossa is well known. I find it a privilege and a responsibility which I fully embrace.

What are the drawbacks?

The only drawbacks have been government impositions. Encouraging business investment in vineyards, which has led to a glut, and low unsustainable prices.

What are your favourite grape varieties?

My favourite grape varieties are the spicy Gewurtz Traminer, Reisling, Semillon, Red Frontignac, Muscat Gordo, Tempranillo, Shiraz and Grenache

Any advice for wine drinkers to enhance their enjoyment of wine?
 A basic understanding of what grows best in what area can help in choosing wines to drink. Be outgoing and adventurous in choice of wine. Try different areas, styles and varieties. Nose before sipping- half the enjoyment is in the smell. Choose wine suited to the occasion.

Any advice for anyone wanting to get into the trade?
Stay out- Too many small producers make it hard for everyone, however, if one does get into the business, then only the best will do!

Any recommendations for wine visitors to Oz?
When visiting various wine areas, be aware of their specialties and the better wine makers. (Not necessarily the bigger ones)

Brief notes about your family:
Jan (Miss Wolf) and I are fifth generation German Heritage.  Jason (33) loves good wine and brews a good beer.  Briony (29) is a sensory analyst which involves running a wine tasting panel, and collating results of wine grape trials.  Tonto (8 months) is a precocious cairn terrier good at entertaining visitors.

Your favourite foods?
Most things gourmet, which are a good excuse for drinking good wine.I like blending cereals together for breakfast. I have a fascination for table grapes, of which I grow about 30 varieties, from early to late maturation. They are delicious! I have been lucky enough to try some of them. – Chrissie  

Your favourite wines?
Every single one of them,- Love 'em all! 

Leisure time activities?
Snatch a peek at TV, mainly world movies, read any paper that's going, a bit of gardening and the odd game of lawn bowls.  I am an avid follower of Aussie Rules (Carn the Crows!) and cricket,. I am interested in all sports.

Holidays?

Very rare. Our idea of a holiday is to go places where we can sell wine.

Favourite author?
The bible has had the greatest impact

Favourite vehicle?
Our Subaru Liberty- has clocked 300,000 K and is still going strong.

Pet hates: I hate barely cooked, sunny side up, very runny eggs.I hate adverts after an over in cricket or a goal in football when I would like to see a replay.

Pet loves: I love my super soft, downy cushion.  I love most fruits. 
I love 50's and 60's music, and my new speakers turned up loud!

More information: www.liebichwein.com.au