Simon Hackett, Pioneering Australian Winemaker, Dies Aged 73
The global wine community is mourning the loss of Simon Hackett, the charismatic and influential Australian winemaker who passed away on January 23rd at the age of 73. News of his death, following a stroke, broke on Tuesday, prompting a wave of heartfelt tributes from colleagues and admirers across the industry, particularly within the United Kingdom where he made a significant impact.
A Life and Legacy in Wine
Simon Hackett, owner of the eponymous Simon Hackett Wines, was a towering figure in Australian viticulture. Born in the famed Barossa Valley and growing up adjacent to the historic Saltram winery in Angaston, his destiny in wine seemed preordained. He began working in vineyards at the age of 18, laying the foundation for a remarkable career.
In 1984, he realised his dream, establishing his own boutique winery overlooking the picturesque McLaren Vale region, south of Adelaide. His operation grew to produce up to 20,000 cases of wine annually, developing a strong reputation for quality and character.
Championing Australian Wine in the UK
Mr Hackett's influence extended far beyond Australia's shores. He was instrumental in introducing premium Australian wines to the British market during the 1990s, forging crucial export deals that brought his distinctive vintages to UK consumers. His wines became a staple for many enthusiasts and helped shape perceptions of Australian viticulture.
Michael Awin, a managing partner of UK importer Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies (ABS), who knew Hackett for over four decades, paid a moving tribute. He described the winemaker as 'larger than life', noting his unique personality infused his work.
'His laconic humour, joie de vivre, and way with words made him a joy to be around,' Awin wrote. 'He was a great winemaker when he could be bothered, but it was his personality that really shone through in his wines.'
Awin recalled a telling anecdote from a prestigious London tasting, highlighting Hackett's wit and disdain for pretension. 'When asked what sort of soil he had in his vineyards, Simon paused and simply replied 'brown' to rapturous applause.' This moment encapsulated his approach: straightforward, authentic, and focused on the joy of the product rather than technical jargon.
Later Years and Business Challenges
The latter part of Hackett's career and business faced significant challenges. He retired from active winemaking in September 2025. Subsequently, his company's winemaking arm closed in November of that year following a lease dispute. In December 2025, Simon Hackett Wines filed for bankruptcy, with reports indicating the business had accrued approximately $2.5 million in unsecured debt.
Prior to these difficulties, the winery had undergone a strategic shift. Between 2020 and 2021, the cellar door underwent a major renovation, pivoting towards becoming a venue for functions and weddings, a move that proved popular. The property has since been sold and is due for settlement in March.
Personal Loss and Enduring Tributes
Simon Hackett's life was also marked by profound personal tragedy. His long-term partner, Deirdre Holt, died in a fire at their winery in 2009, a loss from which friends say he never fully recovered.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the wine world. Emanuel Skorpos from Flinders Run winery remembered Hackett as a 'friend, mentor and second dad'.
'You always made time for me, answered my questions and gave me the right advice,' Skorpos said. 'Life for you was never the same when you lost Deirdre, that zest for life, the thrill of the chase had been ripped from your heart, yet you soldiered on. You will be sadly missed my friend, my mentor my second dad – your memory will remain forever eternal.'
Simon Hackett is remembered not just for the wines he crafted, but for the indelible mark he left on the industry—a true original whose spirit, humour, and passion for Australian wine will be fondly recalled, especially by those in the UK trade he so successfully captivated.
