About Jo Irvine
As a second-generation winemaker, Jo Irvine started her career in winemaking at a very early age.
Jo followed her father, James Irvine, known as the ‘Master Merlot Maker’, around the winery, undertaking the ritual of tasting ferments and wine blending. After leaving school, she studied to become a theatre nurse instead of following the natural path into winemaking.
Eighteen years later, life went full circle as she decided to go to university to pursue her enduring passion for winemaking, which had developed all those years earlier. Working six vintages straight in both the Barossa Valley and California, she made this passion her illustrious career, which spans over two decades, during which she has lent her expertise to over 60 wineries across South Australia, from the Riverland to Kangaroo Island and beyond.
Beyond her winemaking prowess, Jo advocates for preserving the diversity of grape varieties in the Barossa, emphasising the importance of continuing the cultivation of lesser-known varieties like Malbec, Mataro, and Zinfandel. Her commitment to diversity extends beyond mere production, as she believes it is essential for preserving the region's ability to offer a wide array of wines for discerning consumers.
The Levrier Wines Story
After 30 years of winemaking consulting, as well as making wines for her father’s business, Jo began to dream of having her own brand where she could produce wines that were fully hers from start to finish.
When her father sold his business in 2014, Jo started collecting fruit for the style of wine she wanted to create, and in late 2017, Lévrier Wines by Jo Irvine was born.
“After winning multiple trophies and awards for clients over the past 30 years, at the end of the day, it was always the owners’ award. It was time for me to be recognised for my own wines.” – Jo Irvine.
Jo could see that over the last 30 years, the amount of Merlot and Cabernet Franc grown in the Barossa Valley had reduced to less than 40ha, similarly for Malbec and Mataro. In Jo’s mind, the Barossa is more than just Shiraz, and she wants to encourage the continuance of diversity.
“If we don’t keep producing these varieties, then we lose our ability to choose what we would like to drink and enjoy”.
Our Love for the Noble Hound
Greyhounds are a breed of dog that captivates with their inherent elegance and grace. Their slender, athletic build and sleek coat create a striking aesthetic that exudes both strength and agility.
Despite their reputation as racing dogs, greyhounds are known for their calm demeanour and loving disposition off the track. Their large, soulful eyes and distinctive long legs add to their charm, creating an image of a regal and endearing creature. The beauty of greyhounds lies not only in their physical attributes but also in their capacity for loyalty and companionship. Whether in motion or at rest, a greyhound's poise and serenity make them a truly captivating and beautiful breed.
Armed with the desire to own the entire winemaking process and produce the forgotten varieties of the Barossa, Jo sought a name for the brand that combined her love of winemaking and the advocacy she has for the greyhound breed as pets, which has been a major part of her life for over twenty years.
Lévrier is a French word meaning Greyhound, and recognises the chance encounter many years ago with Chilli, her first greyhound, set her on this unique journey in celebrating both famous greyhounds and quality wines.
Each sale of Levrier Wines supports Greyhound Adoption.
2019
Inducted into Barons of Barossa Grand Council
2018
Awarded one of Halliday's top 10 new wineries in Australia
2014
Inducted as a Baron of the Barossa
2009
Barossa Valley Winemaker of the Year
2008
Telstra Business Women of the Year Finalist
2006
International Wine Challenge
Red Winemaker of the Year UK
International Wine Challenge
Best Zinfandel in the World UK
