The story of Olive Hills Estate began in 1886, when Scottish immigrant Hugh Fraser established the vineyard and built the magnificent homestead with a vision of producing fine wines in the beautiful Rutherglen region. His dream was one of grandeur, craftsmanship and a deep connection to the land.
Following family tragedy and the outbreak of influenza, Hugh Fraser eventually left the region. Over the next century, the property fell into neglect, and both the historic homestead and vineyard slowly deteriorated.
In 1997, Ross and Kay Perry saw the potential in this remarkable heritage property and purchased the 500-acre estate. Undaunted by the enormous task ahead, they set about restoring the vineyard, winery and homestead, with a vision to create a unique family-owned estate filled with character, history and exceptional wine.
Over more than a decade, the homestead was lovingly restored to its former glory, retaining the character and craftsmanship of the original heritage property. Today, it remains the family home of Ross, Kay and their children and grandchildren.
With Ross having studied Oenology at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga and Kay bringing her experience in marketing and sales, the pair combined their skills and passion to bring Olive Hills Estate back to life.
Today, that passion continues into the next generation. Ross and Kay’s eldest son, Harry, has worked alongside his father as a winemaker for the past decade, learning the craft from the ground up. Like his father, Harry studied winemaking at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, recently completing his Bachelor of Wine Science and continuing the family’s winemaking tradition.
Today it is a true family affair with Ross & Harry making wine together. Kay managing events, weddings and sales. Daughter Matilda brings her background in business to Olive Hills while also helping with weddings and events. Harry’s wife, Micaela, looks after the wine club and the next generation of grandchildren continue to learn the rhythms of family business and farm life and have become great little helpers at big events in recent years as well as assisting with packing wine clubs, picking grapes and inspecting the vineyards.
During vintage you will find Ross, Kay, Harry handpicking and it is not unusual to see three generations working together in the vineyard, cellar door and events. From the vineyard to the winery, we are proud that every family member and generation has a part to play.
At Olive Hills, we believe great wine begins in the vineyard.
Some vineyards are watered by irrigation. Ours are watered by the seasons.
Our vines are dry-grown, meaning they receive no irrigation. While this naturally produces fewer grapes, each berry develops greater concentration, character and flavour, reflecting the unique conditions of each growing season.
Every harvest is picked by hand. Every decision is made by family. And every vintage tells the story of the year that nature gave us.
From the first budburst to hand-picking the final grapes, we work with the seasons rather than against them. It is a traditional approach, but one we believe allows the land, the vines and the vintage to speak for themselves.
The Olive Hills homestead has undergone extensive restoration, carefully preserving its original style and heritage character. The restored winery, with its original beams and chandeliers, has become a much-loved setting for weddings, celebrations and special occasions.
What began as Hugh Fraser’s dream in 1886 has become a new family legacy — a place where history, wine, family and the land come together.
From our family to yours, welcome to Olive Hills Estate.
