FAQ’s

I know nothing about making wine… I just know that I like wine.  Is this program for me?
Absolutely.  The Winemaker in Residence Program is suitable for anybody who is passionate about wine and wanting to know more about the winemaking process.  Winemaker Jeremy Ottawa will share knowledge gleaned from 20+ years of premium winemaking experience, and will provide behind-the-scenes opportunities that will give you a privileged insight into the winemaking process. 

What can I expect from the program?
The Winemaker in Residence Program is an intensive three day immersion into the world of winemaking.  You won’t be a winemaker by the end of the program but you will have a much enriched understanding of how wine is made and of the impact that the region has on imparting flavour into the wine. During the field trips you will meet with vignerons who have grown vines in the Barossa for generations and whose grapes have made their way into the best of wines – including Penfolds Grange.  Their passion for the land and their knowledge of the nuances of each vineyard, each row, and each vine, will amaze you. You will then take that knowledge into masterclasses with winemaker Jeremy Ottawa, and ultimately you will blend your own wine to take home with you.    And… you will do all of this in the quiet luxury of The Station with great food and making great friends along the way.  If you have any specific questions about wine that you’d like answered during the program then just let us know and we’ll make sure that we cover it during the program.

Is the program only about red wine?
While the masterclasses and blending workshops focus on red wine, there will be plenty of opportunities to discuss and enjoy white wines, sparkling wines, fortified wines…. and gin! 

What do I need to bring?
Not a lot… the program is inclusive of all accommodation, meals and beverages.  The itinerary does include field visits so bring some sturdy shoes and weather appropriate clothing.  There is a swimming pool at The Station so pack your bathers… but leave your towel at home as we supply pool towels!

Does the program include transport? 
Once you are at The Station we will provide all transport to the field trips.   If you need transport to and from Adelaide or the airport then we can arrange that too!  Just ask. 

I have dietary requirements – can you cater for me? 
As long as your dietary requirement isn’t an allergy to wine then we can probably meet it!.  Just contact us to discuss. 

I’m thinking of coming alone to the program – is that OK?
Absolutely – we welcome all wine lovers regardless of gender, age, race, relationship status or other…  and once you’re here we are quite confident that you will find like minded people to share the experience with. 

There are quite a few of us who want to do the program.  Can you fit us all in?  
We’ll do our best… and if you have five or more in your group then we can run the program exclusively for you on your preferred dates.  Just give us a call to discuss rates and availability. 

Will I have a room for myself?
There are several different room configurations at The Station including king rooms for two, king rooms for one, and family rooms with two rooms in one!  Get in quick to secure your preference.  The bathrooms are shared.  It is also possible to stay at your own accommodation and we have several accommodation partners nearby if additional space is required. 

I’d like to stay on for a few extra days to explore the region a bit further.  Is that possible?
It is… just let us know when you book and we will confirm availability and nightly rates.  We can also assist with any further recommendations for tours and activities. 

I can’t make it to the dates for the next program.  Will there be future programs?
Yes!  The Winemaker in Residence Program will run several times per year. Keep an eye on our website and socials for future program dates.