Howard Park Wines has appointed respected second generation winemaker, Nic Bowen as its new Chief Winemaker, starting this upcoming vintage.
Bowen is currently employed as the Senior Winemaker/ Manger for Accolade’s flagship Tintara Winery the home of winemaking for Hardys, Chateau Reynella, Leasingham, Yarraburn and House of Arras brands.
“I am extremely excited to be joining Howard Park a great Western Australia marque with family heritage at its heart,” Bowen said.
“I have great respect for the Burch family and the wines produced under the Burch Family Wines umbrella.
“Born in the Great Southern and having studied Winemaking in Margaret River I’ve always had a soft spot for West Australian wines. Returning to the region is an amazing opportunity to immerse myself once again and I am thrilled to be working alongside a valued and experienced team.”
Bowen has built gained respect in the industry having spent the best part of 16 vintages honing his skills at prestigious wineries both in Australia and internationally.
The winemaker says his passion is for sparkling winemaking and having worked under Ed Carr for 12 years he has honed his skills in the speciality. In 2011 Nic was awarded the Graham Thorp Scholarship for Best Sparkling Wine at the RASNSW Sydney Wines Show, which awarded him the opportunity to travel and learn from some of the world’s most famous Champagne houses.
This specialism was of particular interest for the Burch Family who have, alongside their extensive portfolio of premium Cabernets, Chardonnays and Rieslings, been perfecting the production of West Australian Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wines.
Burch Family Wines owner Jeff Burch said: “Nic’s passion and enthusiasm for sparkling wine stood out, but his broad skillset and ability to make quality wines across the board, will complement and build upon our knowledge that can only enhance our offering.”
Gourmet Traveller Wine 2018 Winemaker of the year, Janice McDonald will remain in a senior winemaking role at Howard Park as Director of Winemaking.
“They will make a formidable team,” Burch added.
“We are looking forward to have Nic on board and excited for what the future has in store.”