Melbourne born and bred, Alex MacKenzie discovered his passion for wine when he was 16, whilst living in the Rhône Valley as an exchange student with a French family. Inspired by the art and mystique of wine production, Alex spent a year backpacking through France appreciating the Gallic respect for fine food and wine. 

Returning to Australia, Alex decided in 1996 to pursue a course in Viticulture at University of Adelaide’s Waite Campus. During this time, Alex worked in the cellar at Tintara, McLaren Vale. 

Completing the course in 2000, he returned to France to work a vintage at Maison M. Chapoutier, one of France’s most respected producers and a pioneer of the region. During this vintage, Alex was exposed to bio-dynamic and organic viticultural practices and the role they take in handling super-premium fruit, inspiring Alex to apply alternative and sustainable viticultural practices and minimal handling techniques in the vineyard, preferring instead to let nature take its course. 

On return to Australia and under the guidance of many noted winemaking mentors, Alex completed the 2001 vintage in the Clare Valley. From 2002-04, while still working with Annie’s Lane, Alex worked vintages and completed trial work within the Coonawarra and Barossa wine regions. He also gained exposure to the wine show circuit as a wine show judge and via tastings with the Australian Wine Research Industry. During this period Alex also completed a Post Graduate in Wine Making at Waite Campus. These experiences provided Alex with an exceptional insight into regional wine styles plus a broader scope into various winemaking and viticultural techniques.