With over 50 vintages under his belt, Karl Stockhausen has earned the title of Hunter Valley “Living Legend”. At 80 years young,Karl is still active in the Australian wine industry.
With his secondary schooling interrupted by World War II, Karl migrated to Australia in 1955. His resettlement began at the Greta Migrant Camp, only a stone’s throw from the nearest Hunter Valley vineyards. Germany’s loss became Australia’s great oenological gain!
Between 1959 and 1979 it is generally held that some of Australia’s finest ever wines emanated from Karl’s Hunter vintages. The 1965 Lindemans Hunter River Burgundy (Shiraz) is still spoken of with great reverence as one of the all time Australian greats.
Karl still retains a role as Consultant Winemaker to Briar Ridge Vineyard in the Hunter Valley. As well as providing guidance to the Briar Ridge winemakers for his Signature range of Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, Karl is still active with several tasting panels, show judging, and continues to reside in the Hunter Valley with partner Julie, who is a Hunter Chef and Restaurateur.