Steve has been nominated as Viticulturalist of the Year

Nomination for Viticulturalist of the Year

We are very proud that our vineyard manager, Steve Sadlier has been shortlisted for viticulturalist of the year as part of the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Awards. Steve has been involved in growing grapes in the Yarra Valley since 1989 and played an instrumental role in the establishment and management of many iconic sites in the Yarra Valley and Victoria, including Yarra Ridge, Oakridge, Heathcote Estate and Yabby Lake. During this time, Steve also found the time to plant his own vineyard on his property outside Yarra Glen. Named Nenagh Park after the town in Ireland from where his grandfather immigrated, the vineyard is planted predominantly to pinot noir, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc.

In 2012, Squitchy Lane was very fortunate to be secure Steve’s services as Vineyard Manager, a position that he still holds today. Steve’s focus on the environment, and in particular on soil health and vine management has been his driving force in production of pristine fruit that forms the backbone of Squitchy Lane wines. Steve’s dedication and patience has been rewarded with Squitchy Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon winning Champion Wine of Show and The Wines of Provenance Trophy, both at the Yarra Valley Wine Show.

Each year, The Halliday Wine Companion shortlists the very best grape growers and winemakers from the thousands that contribute their wines to the Halliday Wine Companion. This year’s winners will be announced at the Halliday Wine Companion Awards on August 20th, 2025.

You can read all the nominations here.