After a lifetime immersed in the wine industry, Nadine Delahunty is perfectly prepared to succeed in her role as Sirromet Wines director. It’s an enormous job, yet at 58 years old, the mother of four had been mentored by the best, that is, her father, Terry Morris, the founder of Sirromet Wines.
Today, Nadine stands as the second of three generations contributing and guiding the creation, maintenance and future growth of Sirromet Wines. Her daughter, Stacey Kollrepp, serves as Sirromet’s brand manager, representing the third generation.
The reality of passing the baton from father to daughter was exactly what Terry and his wife, Lurleen, wanted and planned for their family business, Sirromet Wines (which is “T E Morris” spelled backwards). Nadine shared the same sentiment.
“We wanted to leave a legacy for our family and Queensland,” she said.
This clarity of vision drove the family’s determination to continue the creative process of growing grapes, making wines, and building associated physical architecture to bring it all together.
A step into the pristine grounds of the Mt Cotton establishment speaks of quality and stylish longevity. The design of the Cellar Door, accommodation, restaurant, coffee shop, along with the imposing area known as the “Barrel Hall,” a multipurpose event space, defines a commitment to tradition coupled with modernity.
Nadine has undertaken the role of director after taking an extended time-out to raise her four children, and is now actively engaged in the day-to-day operations of the winery.
Nadine explained her current directorship as “a late-life career move”, yet her knowledge, drive, energy and attention to detail appear to be a natural part of her character.
Additionally, her childhood learnings and subsequent exploration into the world of wine and winemaking has added depth to her expertise.
These factors underpin Nadine’s imagination, which extends way beyond producing exceptional wines; it also encompasses the creation of memorable experiences through the combination of superb food and wine.
Nadine spearheaded the successful monthly men and women’s wine lunches—events that combine fine dining and fine wines with an entertaining educational element.
Equally, the sales side of the business is a top priority. Diligence in pursuing new markets has resulted in an international success story. Queensland’s Sirromet Wines has become one of the first Australian wineries to secure a substantial deal with China.
As Sirromet director, Nadine signed an MOU with a Chinese company, potentially worth millions of dollars. Now, they are looking forward to China’s anticipated positive changes in tariffs export of Australian wines to the country to resume.
Whether it is overseas or from Sirromet’s Cellar Door, the goal is for everyone to taste and enjoy a Sirromet’s unique, quality wine.
And in particular, Nadine says: “I would love every Queensland person to order a Queensland wine.”
These days, Nadine admits much of her life is focused on work interspersed with gym visits.
However, there is one special love – her two grandchildren.
“If I have spare time, I love to see them,” she said.
And one can only wonder if Nadine is gently preparing a fourth generation to partake in the Sirromet legacy.
