Regarded as one of the founding fathers of Australian wine, the pioneering John Riddoch was perhaps the first to realise the rich potential of the Coonawarra region. It was 130 years ago that John Riddoch planted the region’s first vines and, in doing so, positioned himself firmly in Australian winemaking history. The award-winning collection that Riddoch Coonawarra Wines produce today, in his name, hail from the very same region.

Today, we continue to take advantage of the ideal conditions provided by the unique bed of gravelly, free-draining limestone found beneath our feet. From our Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy win in 1987, we continue to take advantage of the consistent and distinctive fruit flavours of the region and surrounds.

Crafted in harmony with the long, cool ripening season of the area, a climate remarkably similar to that of Bordeaux. From the unwavering efforts of our accomplished winemakers, Tim Heath and Matthew Reimann, comes the beginnings of a new era for Riddoch Coonawarra. Like John Riddoch himself, our winemakers continue to build and benefit from long and fruitful relationships with local Coonawarra grape-growing families. It’s this blend of local expertise that underpins the craftsmanship of our wines, which are forever reflective of the region and our passion for it.

A history of excellence

'Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy' from the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards
Riddoch Coonawarra Cabernet Shiraz 1986
Gold Medal, China Wine & Spirits Awards 2019
Riddoch Coonawarra Merlot 2017
Gold Medal, London Wine Competition 2022
The Representative Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2019
'Wine of the Year by Varietal' & Gold Medal, Sommelier's Choice Awards 2021
Riddoch Elgin's Crossing Coonawarra Shiraz 2019
Gold Medal, Sommelier's Choice Awards 2021
Riddoch Elgin's Crossing Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Gold Medal, Sommelier's Choice Awards 2022
Elgin's Crossing Shiraz 2020
Visit the Riddoch Website

The Riddoch collection

Coonawarra Range

John Riddoch (1827-1901) was one of our most visionary pioneers, famous for founding Coonawarra in 1890. The cool maritime climate and exceptional vineyard sites produce wines of beautiful aromatic complexity, rich flavours and freshness. This range of wines pays tribute to him, his determination and his legacy.

Elgin's Crossing Range

This range commemorates the very vessel, ‘The Lady Elgin’ that brought visionary vigneron, John Riddoch, across the seas in 1851 to Australia – a land far from home, where he would come to create winemaking history.

The Elgin’s Crossing range expresses notes of well-ripened grapes, over delivering on character and charm. With confidence and trust, this range provides consumers an elevated Riddoch experience.

Vocation Series

The Vocation Series collection of wines from the awarded Riddoch Coonawarra pays tribute to John Riddoch's multifaceted capabilities, reflected by the ultimate expression of Coonawarra's diversity through single vineyard wines and interesting winemaking techniques. The Vocation Series evokes history through linking the many vocations Riddoch held in his remarkable lifetime, with key regional varietal expressions or blends, and demonstrates premium Coonawarra grape growing and winemaking at its finest.

The Author Range

The Author pays homage to pioneering vigneron John Riddoch (1827-1901). A true visionary, Riddoch is regarded as one of the founding fathers of Australian wine. An influential figure, he established The Coonawarra Fruit Colony in 1890 and is synonymous with the region's story. The Author represents the finest expression of the vintage.

Coonawarra Range

John Riddoch (1827-1901) was one of our most visionary pioneers, famous for founding Coonawarra in 1890. The cool maritime climate and exceptional vineyard sites produce wines of beautiful aromatic complexity, rich flavours and freshness. This range of wines pays tribute to him, his determination and his legacy.

Elgin's Crossing Range

This range commemorates the very vessel, ‘The Lady Elgin’ that brought visionary vigneron, John Riddoch, across the seas in 1851 to Australia – a land far from home, where he would come to create winemaking history.

The Elgin’s Crossing range expresses notes of well-ripened grapes, over delivering on character and charm. With confidence and trust, this range provides consumers an elevated Riddoch experience.

Vocation Series

The Vocation Series collection of wines from the awarded Riddoch Coonawarra pays tribute to John Riddoch's multifaceted capabilities, reflected by the ultimate expression of Coonawarra's diversity through single vineyard wines and interesting winemaking techniques. The Vocation Series evokes history through linking the many vocations Riddoch held in his remarkable lifetime, with key regional varietal expressions or blends, and demonstrates premium Coonawarra grape growing and winemaking at its finest.

The Author Range

The Author pays homage to pioneering vigneron John Riddoch (1827-1901). A true visionary, Riddoch is regarded as one of the founding fathers of Australian wine. An influential figure, he established The Coonawarra Fruit Colony in 1890 and is synonymous with the region's story. The Author represents the finest expression of the vintage.

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