Meet our Winemaker Brooke Blair
Brooke Blair grew up in Mount Gambier, a thriving community in the heart of South Australia's Limestone Coast and among one of Australia's most renowned wine regions. Although she initially began tertiary studies i commerce, she soon discovered her passion for winemaking and changed direction to pursue a career in the industry.
After graduating from the University of Adelaide with a degree in Oenology, Brooke gained extensive winemaking experience across Australia and internationally. Her career has taken her to Spain, Canada and Chile, where she worked across both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, developing a broad understanding of diverse wine styles, growing conditions and winemaking techniques. These experiences helped shape her thoughtful, quality-focused approach to crafting wines of distinction.
Following more than a decade overseas, Brooke returned to Australia and continued to build her reputation as a highly skilled and respected winemaker. Her commitment to quality, attention to detail and passion for continual improvement have been hallmarks of her career.
Today, as Senior Winemaker at Brand's Laira, Brooke leads the winemaking team with a deep appreciation for the winery's rich heritage and the unique character of Coonawarra. Drawing on her extensive experience and expertise, she is dedicated to producing wines that authentically express the region's renowned terra rossa soils and uphold the quality and reputation that have defined Brand's Laira for generations.
Brooke is proud to be part of the ongoing Brand's Laira story and looks forward to continuing the winery's legacy of exceptional Coonawarra wines for years to come.
5 Minutes with Brooke
Q. Who is the greatest influence in your winemaking life?
My parents, who allowed me the freedom to follow my passion.
Q. What is your approach to winemaking?
Let the fruit express itself.
Q. What is your favourite part of the winemaking process?
Blending. It’s such a complex process and it’s really interesting to see how certain wines complement each other (or not).
Q. What is your favourite Brand's Laira wine and why?
I would recommend the Brands Laira One Seven One Cab Sauv – made from established old vines on the famous Terra Rossa soils, it embodies the true essence of everything a Coonawarra Cabernet should be.
Q. If you could invite one person to share a bottle of your wine with, who would it be?
Ricky Gervais.
Q. When you are not making wine, what do you enjoy doing?
Drinking wine and spending time with friends.
Q. What would people be surprised to know about you?
I lived in Canada for 11 years.
Q. If you weren’t making wine for a living, what would you
be doing?
Good question….I enjoy cooking so maybe a chef.
Q. What do you love most about Coonawarra?
The wine, the food and the welcoming community.
Q. What is your favourite wine and food match, and why?
Tawny port and Stilton cheese, it’s a match made in heaven.
Q. Favourite book?
The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton.
Q. Favourite movie?
The Usual Suspects.
Q. Favourite music?
Hard to narrow it down but a few favourites are Groove Armada, Smashing Pumpkins and Halsey.