by Thistledown
Their ethos is great fruit, grown by great people and made with love in the sure knowledge that wine is about the good times – delicious food and great memories. Founded by Giles Cooke MW and Fergal Tynan MW, who also make the Thistledown wines, ‘mundane’ is simply not in their DNA: being involved in every stage of the winemaking process, from bud burst to bottling, means that every bottle from by Thistledown is an experience you’ll want to savour again and again.
Viticulture
Fruit for By Thistledown wines is sourced from carefully selected vineyard sites across Australia, chosen for their ability to express varietal typicity and regional character. There is a strong emphasis on sustainability, with vineyard practices aimed at protecting the environment and ensuring long‑term vineyard health. This approach supports the production of balanced, flavour‑rich fruit suited to fresh, expressive wine styles, particularly for Mediterranean and classic grape varieties adapted to warm climates.
Winemaking
Winemaking for By Thistledown focuses on freshness, vibrancy and immediate drinkability, while still preserving a sense of place and varietal identity. Gentle handling and thoughtful fermentation techniques are used to retain purity of fruit, supported by blending decisions that emphasise balance and approachability. The result is a range of wines that are consistent, bright and accessible, with structure and character that reflect their origins.
Highlights
- Approachability is key, with vibrant, fruit‑forward wines designed for early enjoyment without sacrificing varietal character.
- Regional sourcing supports consistency and expression, showcasing Australian terroir through both classic and Mediterranean grape varieties.
- Sustainability underpins production, balancing environmental responsibility with quality-driven, commercially viable winemaking.





