New winemaker at Margaret River winery, Voyager Estate

Tim Shand is the new Chief Winemaker at Voyager Estate in the Margaret River where he will lead both the winemaking and viticulture teams.

The appointment will see him leave the Yarra Valley where he has worked since 2011, first at Giant Steps with with head winemaker Steve Flamsteed and then as Head of Winemaking at Punt Road Wines where he has been since 2014.

Mr Shand will continue Voyager Estate’s legacy of producing world-class Chardonnay and Cabernet from Monday, 1 August, well established by his predecessor, Steve James who led the winemaking there for 24 years before his departure last November.

“The name ‘Voyager Estate’ evokes a deep and enthusiastic response in wine lovers everywhere. They have a proven history of growing outstanding wines in a world class region. From afar I have admired Voyager's visionary approach to genuine sustainability in viticulture and winemaking, as well as their enviable location in the heart of the Stevens Valley,” he said.

“Joining Alex and her knowledgeable team as Chief Winemaker at this point in the winery's evolution is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, and I cannot wait to get started”.

He was born in Perth but Mr Shand earned his winemaking stripes in the Clare Valley and on international stints in regions including Chianti, Bordeaux, Oregon, and Burgundy, including Château Margaux and Domaine Dujac in France.

Voyager Estate owner, Alexandra Burt, said, “We have deliberately taken our time to find the right person to lead Voyager Estate’s winemaking and viticulture into the next era. Of the many stand-out qualities that Tim brings with him, perhaps the most significant are his depth of thought and curiosity – about all things – along with his generosity and humility.

"He also brings a very considered ambition for the wines and those who know him well know that he is always looking far over the horizon when setting a vision. Tim has risen to the top of a remarkable field of candidates and adding him to our already accomplished team is beyond exciting”.

Ms Burt thanked her production led by Travis Lemm and Glen Ryan, who she credited with having taken the “reins in the interim and smoothly navigated the 2022 vintage" and which she says is showing great promise.