In 2018, Clare Valley grape growers and winemakers brought their talents together in a single association.
We have a history of resilience; to floods, bushfires, droughts and gluts – and the future will bring new challenges. And now, with a shared focus on quality, transparency and collaboration, our region is well-prepared. We are building future skills and capabilities and tackling risks head on to enable our region to reach its full potential.
Our Strategic Plan
OUR BOARD
Mitchell Taylor
ChairMitchell was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. In 1982, shortly after completing high school, Mitchell began his Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of New South Wales, graduating in 1984. He then moved to London and worked in a large stockbroking firm gaining further valuable business experience.
However, Mitchell’s passion for the wine industry lead him back to Australia in 1988, when he officially joined the family business fulfilling roles that included Assistant Winemaker (1992–1997) and Export & Finance Director (1992 –2000). During this time, Mitchell was also studying for a Bachelor of Applied Science (Wine) at Charles Sturt University (1990 – 1995).
He was appointed Managing Director in 2000 and today, Mitchell oversees all aspects of the business. He also has a very hands-on role at the winery where he supervises all winemaking activities ensuring the high quality and consistency of all Taylors wine is maintained.
Since Mitchell’s appointment, Taylors Wines has experienced a period of sustained market growth and continued to develop their reputation for consistently producing superior quality, regional Clare Valley wines from Taylors own estate that are respected worldwide. In addition, Mitchell has overseen Taylors move to seal their entire range of wine under screw cap – making Taylors one of the first major companies in Australia to do so.
Mitchell’s commitment to the Australian wine industry is reflected in his involvement with key industry associations. Mitchell is presently Director of Wine Australia and is the current Chairman of the Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association. Mitchell is also a Founding Director and past Chairman of Australia’s First Families of Wine (AFFW).
Mitchell has also been the Chair of the Wine Australia Marketing Committee, The Chair of the National Wine Council and also Alcohol Beverages Australia. Mitchell is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Olivia Hoffmann
VICE CHAIROlivia has worked as the Marketing Manager for Jim Barry Wines for over 10 years, overseeing branding, communications, packaging and promotion both domestically and overseas. She completed market immersions in the USA and UK in 2010 before joining the Jim Barry team in Clare on a full time basis. In 2016, Olivia completed her Masters of Wine Business from the University of Adelaide. In addition to her work at the winery, Olivia now also manages the family’s accommodation business- Jim Barry Boutique Accommodation. Olivia is the Vice-Chair of the Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association. She has been a member of the South Australian Wine Industry Association Executive Committee since 2019 and is Chair of the SAWIA Marketing and Industry Development Committee.
Grant Carr
BOARD MEMBERGrant is relatively new to the wine industry, having previously spent over 20 years in corporate roles across the UK and in South Australia. In 2018 Grant chose to pursue his passion for wine, buying a small vineyard in Leasingham which he now takes care of with his family. Grant describes himself as an ‘apprentice’ grape grower committed to the long-term success of Clare Valley wine.
Hilary Mitchell
Board MemberAs daughter of Jane and Andrew Mitchell, of Mitchell Wines, Hilary grew up immersed in Clare Valley wine. Returning to Clare from 12 years in Europe in 2014, spurred on by her love of the Clare Valley and the Mitchell Wines family business, Hilary has graduated from Business Administration, Wine Business and is in the final stages of a Graduate Diploma in Oenology and Viticulture, all undertaken at the Adelaide University. Hilary has worked the last 7 vintages at Mitchells alongside head winemaker, Simon Pringle, as well as completed numerous vintages in Spain and Southern France.
She has a a strong interest in sustainability and a belief that community is essential to the future long-term success of the Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association. She looks forward to being an active member of the board, working as a representative for all members to help enhance the global representation of Clare Valley wine.
Matt Schultz
BOARD MEMBERMatt has spent most of his working career working in Finance and Management roles within the wine industry, manufacturing and Agri related Businesses in the Adelaide Hills. He moved to Clare Valley in 2015, where he works in the Senior Leadership team at Taylors Wines as Production Accounting Manager. He has a passion for the wine industry, tourism, and a strong interest in sustainability.
Matt holds a Bachelor of Commerce, is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) and has a broad range of experience spanning governance, business and strategic planning, projects, risk management, compliance & systems, work health & safety, HR, financial management and IT systems. He is also active in the community having represented on several school governing councils in various roles.
Matt participated in the inaugural Clare Valley Wine & Grape Association’s Next Crop Leadership program in 2022 and looks forward to be an active Board Member.