The Ocean View property was purchased in 1993 by Rosemary and Calvin Irons. In 1996, working with partners, Kate and Thomas Honnef, research began to identify appropriate varieties and locations on the estates for the first vines. The initial planting occurred in November 1998, and was followed by a smaller additional planting in 1999. This brought the total area of vines, for the first vintage to approximately 2 hectares. The first varieties included chardonnay, Shiraz and ruby cabernet grapes. Subsequent plantings occurred in 2002 (chardonnay) and 2003 (viognier). Further plantings are scheduled for each of the next few years to bring the total area in vines to approximately 10 hectares.

From the outset, a deliberate decision was made to make OCEANVIEW ESTATES an educational experience that would inform individuals in the Brisbane area about the grape growing and wine making process. For that reason, it was decided to build a complete and self-sufficient winery at the estate. The long term aim is to expand the winery to cater for the additional vine plantings and to build a separate area for cellar door sales and a dining facility. The plans also included the provision for accommodation and a small conference facility on site. These were submitted to the Pine Rivers Shire Council which approved the plan subject to approval at each stage of the process. The winery was built and equipped in 2002 so the 2003 vintage could be made on site. The process of applying for approval to sell at the cellar door occurred in 2003.

Thomas Honnef has been responsible for the day to day supervision of the vine planting, winery set out and wine making and much of the direct hard work that has gone into setting up the estate. During the early stages of the wine making process, Mr. Brian Wilson, a wine consultant and former wine maker for the James Hardy Company worked with Thomas to teach him the technical skills required in a modern winery. The quality of the wine from the first vintages indicates the care that was taken to help Thomas develop the art of wine making.

The Ocean View area is increasingly becoming a destination for Brisbane residents who want a leisurely drive through a scenic rural area that is within a relatively short distance from the ‘big city.’ OCEANVIEW ESTATES Winery and Vineyard will complement the attractions that already exist on the mountain and add an educational experience that is unique in southeast Queensland.

For directions to Oceanview Estates, Click here.