The Winery

The Ocean View property was purchased in 1993 by Rosemary and Calvin Irons. In 1996, working with partners, Kate and Thomas Honnef, research began to identify appropriate varieties and locations on the estates for the first vines. The initial planting occurred in November 1998, and was followed by a smaller additional planting in 1999. This brought the total area of vines, for the first vintage to approximately 2 hectares. The first varieties included chardonnay, Shiraz and ruby cabernet grapes. Subsequent plantings occurred in 2002 (chardonnay) and 2003 (viognier). Further plantings are scheduled for each of the next few years to bring the total area in vines to approximately 10 hectares.

From the outset, it was a passion of all involved to provide a destination for people to visit where they could experience a fully functional winery that grew and processed its own wine in a beautiful location where the wines would be enjoyed in accompanyment with complimentary food & a relaxing atmosphere. The winery was built and equipped in 2002 so the 2003 vintage could be made on site. The process of applying for approval to sell at the cellar door also occurred in 2003. In January 2007 we opened our beautiful restaurant. A timber and pole construction to make the most of the views overlooking the vineyards and lake. This has been a great addition to the estate with the ability now to cater for al a carte dining, functions, corporate events and weddings. At the same time the first 2 of our vineyard cottages were completed. In 2009 we added the stylish cellar door tasting room as a separate area on the estate which has added to the experience for our wine lovers & diners alike.

We now have the whole package to offer of delicious food (Finalist in the restaurant & Caterers Awards 2009), a beautiful restaurant, award winning wines(gold & trophy for 2009 Viognier) and a gorgeous place to stay(featured 3 times on The Great South East program).

Future plans include the construction of another 8 cottages & a small conference centre. These are all coming soon with applications for construction currently with council.

Thomas Honnef has been responsible for the day to day supervision of all things related to the vineyard and winery and is the resident winemaker and one of the four business owners. During the early stages of the wine making process, Mr. Brian Wilson, a wine consultant and former wine maker for the James Hardy Company worked with Thomas to teach him the technical skills required in a modern winery. The quality of the wine from the first vintages indicates the care that was taken and the passion that Thomas has for producing fantastic Queensland wine.

The Ocean View area is increasingly becoming a destination for Brisbane residents who want a leisurely drive through a scenic rural area that is within a relatively short distance from the ‘big city.’ Ocean View Estates Winery and Vineyard will complement the attractions that already exist on the mountain and add an educational experience that is unique in southeast Queensland.

For directions to Oceanview Estates, Click here.