Coonawarras Bowen Estate celebrates 50th vintage milestone

Bowen Estate in Coonawarra is celebrating its 50th vintage this month, an achievement that Coonawarra Vignerons says shows the enduring commitment of a family whose name has become synonymous with classic Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. Family owned and operated since its foundation in 1975 by Doug and Joy Bowen, the winery “has remained true to its philosophy of crafting wines that faithfully express the unique character of Coonawarra's celebrated terra rossa soils”. Reflecting on his journey, Doug Bowen said that he never wanted to work for anyone else. “I had lots of energy and passion to start my own winery experience. I never wanted to work for anyone else, simply wanted to put all my efforts into my own project.” Doug had studied agriculture before completing Oenology at Roseworthy Agricultural College, but it was one unforgettable bottle of wine that cemented his future. “I was fortunate in the late ’60s to share a bottle of Mildara Coonawarra Cabernet 1962. It was a moment in my life I will always remember. My passion and belief in Coonawarra was born there and then.” That conviction led Doug and Joy to establish Bowen Estate, believing the region’s famed terra rossa soils could produce wines of exceptional character and longevity.