The 2026 vintage marks a remarkable milestone for one of Coonawarra’s most respected wine figures, with Bill Brand celebrating his 60th vintage in the region.
From his first harvest in 1966 at just 17 years of age, Bill has dedicated a lifetime to the vineyards, wineries and industry organisations that have helped shape Coonawarra into one of Australia’s most renowned wine regions.
Born into one of Coonawarra’s pioneering wine families, Bill began his journey working alongside his father Eric Brand and brother Jim Brand (dec.), helping build the iconic Brand’s Laira label. In those early years, grapes and wine were sold to Hardys, while Bill immersed himself in every aspect of the business — from vineyard work and winemaking to laboratory studies and winery operations.
A practical and hands-on operator, Bill became a self-taught welder, fabricating tanks and equipment, while also helping construct much of the original Brand’s Laira winery infrastructure by hand, including laying brickwork and Mount Gambier stone buildings that remain part of the estate today.
The Brand family’s commitment to quality was recognised early, with Eric Brand’s Laira 1971 Shiraz awarded the inaugural Stodart Trophy at the Brisbane Wine Show, further cementing the reputation of the Brand name and Coonawarra wines on the national stage.
Beyond the winery, Bill made a significant contribution to Australian viticulture through vine improvement and nursery work, helping establish selected rootstocks and planting more than 1.5 million vine cuttings over five years.
His service to the wider industry has also been extensive, including time as President of Coonawarra Vignerons and six years with the South Australian Phylloxera Board (four of which, as chairman) now Vinehealth Australia.
Today, Bill continues his winemaking journey through his self-titled label, Billy Brand Wines, working alongside the next generation of the Brand family and bringing six decades of experience to every vintage.
Coonawarra Vignerons Acting Executive Officer Heidi Guyett said Bill’s milestone was worthy of regional recognition.
“Sixty vintages is an extraordinary achievement and speaks not only to Bill’s longevity, but to the passion, resilience and practical contribution he has made to Coonawarra over many decades,” Ms Guyett said.
“Bill’s story is woven through the fabric of this region — in our vineyards, our wineries and the strong family traditions that continue to define Coonawarra today.”
As the 2026 harvest unfolds, Bill Brand’s 60th vintage stands as a celebration of dedication, craftsmanship and a lifetime devoted to Coonawarra wine.
