Meet Corrina Wright, a winemaking trailblazer who has transformed her family’s McLaren Vale vineyard Oliver’s Taranga into a celebrated brand.

Born into six generations of grape growers, Corrina initially dreamed of becoming a lawyer. However, a trip overseas sparked a new appreciation for her winemaking heritage and led her back to a life among the vines.

In this episode of First Act, Corrina shares her story of embracing her family legacy, becoming the first winemaker in her immediate family, and overcoming the challenges of a male-dominated industry. With a passion for promoting diversity and inclusion, Corrina is reshaping the future of winemaking.

Join us as we go behind the scenes with Corrina to discover how her unique journey and dedication have made her a standout in the world of wine.

Cheers to Corrina’s inspiring journey at Oliver’s Taranga!

KEY TOPICS

Family business and collaborations

• Collaboration with motorsports driver Valtteri Bottas in the creation of Ihana wine
• Use of Shiraz and small-batch productions
• Opening up of export markets and new opportunities
• Involvement in the purchase of a winery and gravel bike racing events
• Managing business growth and culture

Passion for innovation and winemaking

• Exploration of new varietals and the “white space”
• Learning from the craft beer business
• Differences between wine and beer industries
• Challenges of breaking into the beer market dominated by big companies

Diversity and inclusion in the wine industry

• Creation of Australian Women in Wine
• Initiatives to address diversity and equality
• Investment in research
• Creation of a charter for companies to sign up to
• Increasing female representation on industry boards and event panels
• Raising awareness about the scientific and creative aspects of winemaking

Family business success and innovation

• Transition from corporate wineries to managing their own vineyard
• Balancing honouring legacy with business innovation
• Major turning point: Converting a heritage-listed workers’ cottage into a cellar door
• Navigating expansions despite challenges presented by COVID-19

Female entrepreneurship in male-dominated industries

• Importance of having supportive people and staying true to oneself
• Advice for female entrepreneurs in male-dominated industries
• Emphasis on authenticity and being true to oneself

Daily life of a winemaker and promoting more women in wine

•  Variation of daily tasks with the seasons
• Initial career aspirations and transition into winemaking
• Lack of gender diversity in the wine industry
• Passion for promoting more women in wine production