International Cool Climate Wine Show 2024
Chair of Judges
Rohan Smith
Rohan has a passion for soil and vines and making wine that is reflective of the site from which it comes and has a strong belief that we are custodians of the land that we farm, to ensure sustainability for now and generations to come.
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To him, having perfect fruit from the vineyard is the cornerstone of a producing wines of purity, structure and balance. Following a successful career as a classical musician and in the music industry, Rohan turned his attention to his love for wine, winemaking and working the dirt.
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To drive this passion, he relocated to the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, undertaking a Bachelor of Wine Science through Charles Sturt University (graduating as Dux with a University Medal) and has worked for an array of vineyards and wineries across the Peninsula including Elgee Park, Merricks Estate, Foxeys Hangout and as winemaker at Handpicked wines, before taking his particular passion for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay North to join Medhurst Wines in the Yarra Valley as Chief Winemaker.
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Rohan has been a judge at numerous wine shows such Melbourne Royal Wine Awards, Yarra Valley, Gippsland and Macedon Wine shows as well as being involved with The Australian Pinot Noir Challenge. He is also a member of the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards committee.