HISTORY 

The Starr family purchased well-established vineyards in 1969 and Merrivale Wines is founded in 1971. Throughout the 1970's, the vineyards are gradually developed and improved while Jack Starr became renowned for big Shiraz-pressing red wines. Reds and fortified wines are sold with growing success.

The renowned Krondorf Winery of the Barossa Valley purchased Merrivale Wines as a separate entity. Charles Hargrave was appointed head Winemaker under the instruction of Grant Burge and Ian Wilson. Chardonnay (sourced from Willunga) and Riesling from the property's vines were introduced to the growing portfolio of wines.
Their first vintage was processed at Krondorf Wines while the Merrivale "hollow tin shed" was being equipped for future vintages.

Rapidly gaining widespread recognition, the Merrivale Winery was acquired by Brian and Kay Light who set about revitalising the old vineyard, planting 2 hectares of Chardonnay and 3 hectares of Shiraz during 1994 and 1995.

This was followed closely by the purchase of a second vineyard at Bakers Gully, situated high in the hills above McLaren Vale. The new Tapestry label was also introduced, but remained as a sister label under the Merrivale brand.

In 1997 the prominent South Australian company Gerard Industries purchased Merrivale Wines under the charter of the Robert Gerard AO, who remains as owner today. Since that time, this relatively small boutique label has gained widespread recognition both within Australia and Overseas, successfully establishing export markets in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, UK, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore.