This appointment marks an exciting step forward for Bimbadgen as we continue to evolve our winemaking program and expand our presence both at home and abroad. Michael will be responsible for leading our winemaking team while driving our distribution and export strategy into a new era of growth.

“It’s great to have Michael join our team,” says Jordan Rodgers, General Manager – Hunter Valley Operations. “His genuine pride in the place the Hunter Valley holds in Australian wine history and his understanding of the nuances of Hunter Valley viticulture and winemaking are impressive and genuine. In addition to Michael’s winemaking success and experience, his commercial understanding of sales and distribution makes him a key appointment to our team in this critical role.”

Michael’s winemaking journey began in southern New South Wales, where he crafted cool-climate Chardonnays in the Snowy Mountains. He trained under the late Phillip John, the celebrated winemaker behind Lindeman’s iconic Bin 65 Chardonnay. His formal qualifications include a Bachelor of Oenology from Charles Sturt University, alongside an MBA and Master of Marketing from the University of Newcastle.

Michael’s career spans influential roles across the wine industry, including National Wine Buyer at Wine Selectors, senior winemaking positions at Hungerford Hill, and most recently as Operations Manager and Winemaker at Bunnamagoo Estate Wines in Mudgee.

Returning to the Hunter Valley after more than a decade, Michael says the decision felt like a natural progression:

“I’m thrilled to be returning to the Hunter Valley after 14 years. To me, this is Australia’s premier wine region, rich in history and authenticity. My winemaking philosophy is about creating wines with a true sense of time and place, allowing each vintage to speak for itself with minimal intervention. I’m excited to join a business like Bimbadgen that has the scale, spirit, and ambition to reach more people, more meaningfully, both in Australia and abroad.”

In his new role, Michael will also focus on growing our national and international partnerships, strengthening relationships within the trade, and inspiring the next generation of wine lovers.