Growing up in the deep south of Western Australia, Albany, Julian had a natural introduction to the world of viticulture and agriculture by way of his multi-generation farming family. After graduating Dux from his Oenology and Viticulture studies in Margaret River, and receiving the Leeuwin Award for future leadership, Julian was awarded a scholarship to make wine in Burgundy.
After stints in Margaret River, Central Otago, and Oregon, Julian took up a role as Senior Winemaker at Giant Steps in the Yarra Valley, before returning to Margaret River to join McHenry Hohnen as Chief Winemaker in early 2017. Later that year he graduated Dux of the Len Evans Tutorial, one of the biggest honours for Australian winemakers.
He then had the prestigious honour of Chief Winemaker for one of the New Worlds most iconic wineries, Craggy Range in Hawke’s Bay. During that time, he helped to winery to the no.1 rank in the 2023 Real Review and the highest ranked NZ & Australian winery in
the 2022 Worlds Best Vineyards award. He joined Stonier Wines in 2024 as Director of Viticulture and Winemaking and continues his role as Consultant Winemaker to Craggy Range.
