The Thorn-Clarke People
David Clarke, Owner
David is a vigneron and geologist which has proved a winning combination. He was formerly the Chairman of Australian Vintage Limited which, until its takeover by Simeon Wines Limited, was Australia's second largest listed wine company.
When not working and spending time with the family, chances are you will find David playing, watching or talking about his favourite sport - Cricket.
Cheryl Clarke, Owner
Cheryl is a vigneron from the family's fifth Barossa generation. Cheryl was instrumental in establishing the Mt Crawford vineyard, and succeeded in convincing all, that Pinot Gris would work at Mt Crawford. The Pinot Gris has worked so well we can't keep up!
Sam Clarke, General Manager & Son
Sam is a member of our sixth Barossa generation to be involved in the Barossa wine industry. After having spent several years in various mining towns across the country working as an accountant, it was time to come home and manage the family winery.
On weekends Sam can be found spending time with his wife Helen and two daughters, windsurfing or out in a paddock chasing his cattle.
Nicole Clarke, Daughter
Nicole is David and Cheryl's daughter and an accountant by training. Nicole was involved in establishing the winery, prior to having a baby son - now she is raising a future ambassador for the winery.
Peter Wild, Operations Manager
Peter is a quality oriented vigneron. He was previously in charge of Penfolds/Seppelts northern Barossa vineyards at Kalimna and Koonunga Hill, which contribute up to 40% of the fruit for Penfolds Grange.
Married with three children Peter enjoys fishing, windsurfing, football, tennis, squash - If he sits still for more than 5 minutes call a doctor, chances are he's not feeling 100%.
Steve Machin, Marketing Manager
Steve has worked for more than 10 years in the wine industry, primarily in marketing and commercial roles at BRL Hardy. His most notable achievement was the development of the Banrock Station brand.
Married with two children, Steve is another energetic guy who is very handy with a tennis raquet and cricket bat.
Derek Fitzgerald, Winemaker
Having originally gained a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Sydney University, Derek decided his talent would be better used making wine. As a result he completed a Graduate Diploma in Wine Making at Adelaide University.
Since his winemaking studies, Derek has worked in various wine regions - including the Hunter Valley, Franklin River, and Langhorn Creek. These experiences have given him the opportunity to produce a variety of styles from cool and warm climate viticultural regions. Derek's winemaking ability has won him several trophies at wine shows - including 'Best White of Show' at the 2002 Royal Sydney Wines Show.
Now part of the Thorn-Clarke team we are sure the success will continue.
Jarrod Thorn
Jarrod grew up in the Barossa, before moving to nearby Adelaide to complete his tertiary education and commence a career in public accounting. He returned to the family business early in 2007 with a strong financial background to help drive the future success of the business. Jarrod is married with a young child and shows strong interest for both football and property development.