Oliver’s Taranga: Six generations of family, wine and legacy

As a finalist in Australia’s Favourite Family Business 2024 competition, Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards is more than a winery — it’s a six-generation story of family, resilience, and a shared love of a tipple.

Led by sixth-generation family member Corrina Wright, Oliver’s Taranga has thrived by combining a reverence for history with a forward-thinking approach. “I feel very lucky to love what I do,” says Corrina, who considers it an honour to work with her family, creating wines rooted in 185 years of grape-growing skill.

The recognition as a finalist is especially meaningful to the Olivers.

“We feel so honoured that one of our Taranga family nominated us for this award,” Corrina shares. “There are so many amazing family-run businesses in Australia, we feel privileged to be considered among the most appreciated.”

From Scottish roots to South Australian soil

The Oliver family story dates back to 1839, when William Oliver and his family left Scotland and embarked on a daunting journey to South Australia. After settling on a parcel of land he’d purchased “sight unseen”, William set up a mixed farm and made an unconventional choice for the time — he planted wine grapes.

“Perhaps he enjoyed a tipple himself, or maybe the Olivers were true entrepreneurs, seeing opportunity where others saw difficulty,” says Corrina, reflecting on her ancestor’s pioneering spirit.

Today, Oliver’s Taranga is still based on that original land, with each generation contributing to its further success. This deep family heritage has infused the vineyard’s wines with a sense of history and craftsmanship that makes them truly unique.

The joys (and quirks!) of a family-run business

Working with family has its own blend of challenges and joys. Corrina appreciates the chance to collaborate with both her “actual family and staff family,” sharing a common goal rooted in legacy and ambition. However, the multi-generational nature of the business also brings its quirks, from keeping her “Uncle Don up to date with the business every time he drops off the post” to younger family members sneaking biscuits from the office.

Still, it’s hard not to be risk-averse when your family business is riding on your shoulders. Yet Corrina says that despite this challenge, shared values keep the family united and motivated on a continued growth journey.

“The sixth generation continues the family legacy, particularly in grape growing, bringing new perspectives and ideas to make the family business relevant and forward thinking.

“Even after so many years, the family love working together, still unpretentious, still grateful, but always brave and ready for change or adventure, such as teaming up with an F1 driver to make a truly delicious Shiraz.”

Ready to win Australia’s Favorite Family Business

To Oliver’s Taranga, winning Australia’s Favorite Family Business would be a thrilling affirmation of their work and dedication. “We’d love to win mostly because we’re a pretty competitive bunch,” Corrina laughs, “as anyone who has played against us in sport or board games could attest!”

With their blend of tradition, innovation, and passion, Oliver’s Taranga is a genuine contender for the title, carrying 185 years of family pride into the spotlight.

Find out more about Oliver’s Taranga

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