Old Collegians in winemaking

James Oliver (2007)

James Oliver is a well-travelled winemaker, having gained valuable working experience across the globe. Following his time at Clarendon, James studied a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide.

Clarendon remains a huge part of James’ life, having attended the school from Prep through to Year 12. James’ parents, Andrew (1970) and Jillian (1973), are both Old Collegians, as are his siblings, Fiona (2000) and Samantha (2003).

“My years at Clarendon helped shape who I am. My well-rounded education gave me the tools to succeed in my chosen field,” said James. “Once I decided to pursue winemaking, my teachers guided me through selecting VCE subjects that were geared towards my degree.”

James is currently employed as a Winemaker at Yering Station in the Yarra Valley. He has previously worked as an Assistant Winemaker for Hollick Wines in Coonawarra, for Paringa Estate and Clyde Park in Victoria and has worked for wineries in Germany, France and the USA.

“My experiences have allowed me to gain a greater understanding of the many different viticulture and winemaking techniques used all over the world,” said James. “There are so many variables along the winemaking process that can ultimately change the final wine. The process fascinates me.”

James also enjoys experimenting with how food and wine can be enhanced by one another. In his spare time, he loves cooking and entertaining family and friends with his creations.

John Harris (1990)

John has always been passionate about wine and food, and values the art of creating products that bring joy to others. After completing his education at Clarendon, John studied Science at Monash University, majoring in Immunology and Microbiology.

After attending a wine tasting event, he found an opportunity to combine his interest in science with his love for wine. This encouraged him to complete a Wine Science degree at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga.

John’s winemaking career has since flourished, having gained valuable experience at Brown Brothers and Domaine Chandon wineries, where he managed the growth and quality improvements in the sparkling wine program. He is now a partner in Mitchell Harris Wines in Ballarat, where he wears many hats, including winemaker and wine buyer.

“Nothing has been more satisfying than managing and growing our own family wine business,” said John.

He credits his education at Clarendon with encouraging him to pursue the career of his dreams. “A solid education is a very important start to many careers,” said John. “My time at Clarendon taught me to make a career out of something based on what you’re passionate about and aligns with your inner values.”

John believes that with a push towards more service-based industries, and the challenges faced by a changing climate, there is an opening for creative young minds to provide solutions and generate opportunities in the years ahead.

“Set the bar high,” said John. “Do your best work and you will be rewarded in the end.”

Ben Dowling (2016)

Ben Dowling will commence a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide in 2021. Over the last two years, Ben’s interest in the winemaking industry has grown significantly whilst working at the Mount Langi Ghiran vineyard. “This experience has inspired me to seek further education in the industry. I have a strong interest in developing my understanding of the winemaking process,” said Ben. “I am fascinated by the history and enduring legacy of wine in popular culture and throughout human history.”

Following his time at Clarendon, Ben commenced a Bachelor of Arts at Melbourne University, before returning to Ballarat to complete a Certificate Three in Horticulture at Federation University. In 2018, Ben commenced his traineeship at Mount Langi Ghiran.

“I find it very difficult to imagine my life had I not attended Clarendon,” said Ben. “The experiences I had at school are inseparable to the person I am now. From my participation in the rowing program to my time on King Island, I have experienced some of the greatest highlights of my life so far.”