Bruce Redman – Named Coonawarra Patron

From time to time a very special accolade is bestowed upon members of Coonawarra wine community.  Individuals are acknowledged for their ongoing commitment to the region and are inducted as a Coonawarra Paton. Only seven people have become Patrons, with just three of those still living today. So, it’s with much pride that we can report that today the Coonawarra Grape and Wine Incorporated (CGWI) announced that this prestigious title has been given to our very own Bruce Redman along with Michelle Stehbens from Katnook Estate. What a very deserving recipient, having been involved with the promotion of Coonawarra for almost 40 years.

Bruce describes being a Coonawarra Patron as very humbling and a great honour. He noted, “There are some people who believe this honour is only bestowed on ‘old farts’ within the Coonawarra wine community. If this is the case then I guess Coonawarra is trying to send me a message!”

Bruce’s Background: Stepping Back in Time

Bruce was born and bred in Coonawarra. He came into the world at Old Penola Hospital in 1954 and later attended Penola Primary School before heading to Scotch College in Adelaide. He then went on to study oenology at Roseworthy College and worked at Reynella and Krondorf. He spent two years overseas honing his winemaking skills before heading back to Coonawarra and returning to Redman in September 1981.

Bruce has been heavily involved with the Coonawarra Vignerons Association (CVA), which is now the CGWI, since its inception. He has served as Secretary, Vice President and twice as President. Currently he is the CGWI Treasurer.

He has also been on the Coonawarra Cup Committee, Roadshow Committee and Limestone Coast Wine Industry Council as well as chairperson for the Barrel Series.

With all this work for the good of the region it’s a wonder he found time to build a successful label like Redman but, of course, he did and Redman Wines continues to thrive with him at the helm.

Bruce’s Reaction – In his own words

Despite being a long-serving member of many of the region’s prominent organisations, Bruce was completely surprised to be named 2019’s Coonawarra Patron. “Many of the best ideas have come late in the evening, after a few glasses of premium Coonawarra red and much robust discussion. I must admit that on some of these occasions there were ideas which were not acted upon as the on the following morning the participants could not remember what they were,” he says jokingly. The CVA hold many successful events to encourage visitors to the area, including the Coonawarra Vignerons Cup, an apt occasion for the accolade to be awarded.

His advice to future generations? “Everyone involved in growing grapes, winemaking, marketing and selling Coonawarra wine is in some way an ambassador for our wonderful region,” he says. “I encourage all Coonawarra community members to spread the word about how great Coonawarra is.”

Wise words, indeed. Congratulations Bruce on being named a Coonawarra Patron. We’re very proud!