From the Lucky Country came Terra Felix*

*Latin for Lucky Country

Terra Felix was launched in 2001. Initially it was part of the Tallarook range. Using excess grapes from Tallarook and surrounding vineyards, Terra Felix immediately caught the attention of the wine writers.

The initial vintages concentrated on commercial varieties such as Shiraz, Merlot Cabernet and Chardonnay. The problem facing the fledging brand was that there were plenty of these wines available on the market and therefore distribution became a challenge.

In 2003 it was decided that Terra Felix should reposition its offering and concentrate largely on using Northern Rhone grape varieties. And why not? The growing conditions, soil and climate around Tallarook bear an uncanny resemblance to Northern Rhone.

In 2004 we embraced a process of change which continues today. Our first steps were focused on producing Australian versions of Northern Rhone classics. So we made our first Shiraz Viognier, Marsanne Roussanne and Mourvedre. The move was well received by both the wine trade and wine writers.

Comments such as ‘we’re lucky to have a winery that produces consistent, quality wines at a decent price’ (Kerry Skinner) have positioned the range as delivering value well beyond its price. Restaurants and retailers started supporting Terra Felix and this success resulted in the opening of export markets in Europe and the USA.

2005 was a pivotal tear for Terra Felix. It was the year Terry Barnett started to make our wine. Terry came with an impressive pedigree. Most recently he had been chief winemaker at Brown Brothers. There, his role required him to run the entire Operating Division, which included internal and external grape supply, winemaking and packaging. He was responsible for wine that had won over 50 trophies and 200 gold medals at national and international wine shows. He led innovation at Brown Brothers with the introduction of Italian and Spanish grape varieties as well as the flagship Patricia Range of wines.

2005 was also the year Peter Simon, Stan Olszewski and John Nicholson bought out the founding partner of Terra Felix, Luis Riebl. Peter Simon took on the role of CEO. By the end of 2005 Terra Felix was emerging as a strong business in its own right.

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