Our Story

History tells us that jesters were celebrated for their skills in using humour and wittily observed social commentary to entertain both their royal masters and the courtiers of the day.

And in the works of William Shakespeare, jesters made frequent appearances as characters in his very topical performances.

It is from these historical and theatrical links Jester Hill has sourced our provenance.

Our mission is to ensure that at gatherings of friends, family and even fools, the occasion is made more memorable by the drinking of our premium quality wines.

When Michael and Ann Bourke set off for the Granite Belt on their motorcycles in March 2010, little did they realise that 9 months later they would be the proud owners of Jester Hill Wines.

Established in 1993 with the first plantings, Jester Hill Wines strives to ensure the unique Continental climate of the Granite Belt region is represented in every bottle.

We are a family-owned and operated winery and we believe there is a wine for everybody. Our wide range of styles and varieties is sure to find favour with even the most discerning palate.

Ann and Mick Bourke standing in front of a bottle of red wine.

OUR HISTORY

At Jester Hill Wines, we believe the enjoyment of wine is central to many of life's experiences!

jester hill property purchased

1990

When the property was purchased in 1990 it had a small plantation of fruit trees and table grapes which were removed and the ground rested for two years prior to the first planting.

planting began

1990

Planting began with disease-resistant rootstock, which was then left for 12 months to establish their root system prior to field grafting.

new area planted

1994

Each year the new area selected for planting was prepared by deep ripping and disking the soil with the addition of gypsum; dolomite and superphosphate. This was done to provide the soil with the right structure; pH level and nutrients. The vines were then grafted with Shiraz scion.

planting 1yo bench grafted vines

1997

This regime was continued until 1997 when one-year-old bench grafted vines were planted to provide an earlier maturity. Harvest extends from late January until April while pruning occurs during July, August and September. To date, 7 hectares of the property have been planted which can produce over 50 tonnes of grapes annually which is enough for our small, family-run vineyard.

proud new owners

2011

When Michael and Ann Bourke set off for the Granite Belt on their motorcycles in March 2010, little did they realise that 9 months later they would be the proud owners of Jester Hill Wines!