Since 1968, Plantagenet Winery has proudly remained a family-owned business, epitomising the pioneering spirit of Tony Smith, who laid the groundwork for the first vineyards in the Great Southern region. Passing through the hands of ‘Lionel Samson Sadleir’s Group,’ the oldest family business in Western Australia, the brand is now under the stewardship of Tom Wisdom, a sixth-generation descendant of Lionel Samson, and his wife Jo. They’re dedicated to preserving the legacy of Plantagenet Wines within the Samson family while enhancing its reputation for crafting distinctive wines that authentically capture the essence of the Great Southern terroir.

Tony Smith’s journey began with a modest inheritance, leading him to acquire Bouverie Farm in the Plantagenet Shire in 1968. By planting Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, he sowed the seeds of Plantagenet Winery’s future success. The fruits of his labour, harvested in 1974, yielded wines of remarkable promise, prompting Smith to convert a local apple packing shed into a winery. Here, he meticulously crafted Shiraz with regional spiciness and full-bodied Cabernet, embracing the cool climate conditions of the Great Southern. His foresight extended to planting additional varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, further enriching the offerings of Plantagenet Vineyard.

Though Tony passed away in November 2021, his enduring legacy thrives in the vineyards and landscapes of the Great Southern, a testament to his pioneering spirit and gentlemanly demeanour.

Tom Wisdom, former Director of Western Australia’s venerable Lionel Samson Sadleir’s Group, assumed the role of Managing Director of Plantagenet Wines during their ownership for three years. With profound expertise in viticulture and decades of involvement in the wine industry, both Tom and Jo are deeply committed to preserving the Plantagenet brand within the Samson family fold and nurturing its heritage as a quintessentially Australian icon.

“Having been intimately involved in the wine industry and the journey of Plantagenet Wines for many years, we’re excited to seize the opportunity to guide this historic brand towards a vibrant future.”

Read the latest Plantagenet Wine Reviews from Ray Jordan HERE