The End of an Era – Howard Park Wines says Farewell to Director of Winemaking Janice McDonald

After 10 brilliant years as Chief Winemaker and then Director of Winemaking, Janice McDonald will be moving on from Howard Park Wines this year.

After 10 brilliant years as Chief Winemaker and then Director of Winemaking, Janice McDonald will be moving on from Howard Park Wines this year.

With an eye for aesthetics and a strong, enduring connection to her Singaporean roots, owner Amy Burch is an enigmatic figure at Howard Park and it was with great delight we got to spend time with her in the very buildings she helped to design.

Before the wine is made, the grapes are grown. We took a moment to chat with our Chief Viticulturalist Dave Botting to learn about his personal philosophy and delicate approach to growing grapes. the importance of long term sustainability, and the time that goes into producing the best fruit possible.

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of spending a moment in Jeff Burch’s presence you will know he is a deeply enigmatic man who loves to spin a yarn and tell you of everything from his childhood in Adelaide, his madcap idea to bring traditional method sparkling wine to West Australia, and everything in between.

As a signature ballet movement, the Jeté requires years of devotion and passion, to craft something that is seemingly effortless, elegant and refined.
Howard Park’s Jeté sparkling wine range is crafted with the same principles and made with 100% Western Australian fruit.

After a wild and fast paced 2021 vintage we managed to share a moment of unscripted reflection with our new Chief Winemaker Nic Bowen, and share a glass of wine as he spoke of his vision for the future at Howard Park , what learning under the esteemed winemaker Ed Carr was like and more.

“It’s about legacy and integrity – I’m determined to leave vineyards in a better state, a more sustainable state for the future generations.” – Chief Viticulturist, Dave Botting.

Jeff Burch shares his thoughts on the recently completed 2021 vintage.

Delve into part one of Jeff Burch’s summary of V21. This was a vintage that separated the professionals and the dedicated from the average or inexperienced viticulture teams.

Respected second generation winemaker, Nic Bowen returns to his West Australian roots after Howard Park brings onboard the rising star as their new Chief Winemaker.