Our Story
1860
The original estate was purchased by John Hugo’s maternal great grandfather, George Sauerbier (1860-1936).
1951
John’s parents, Colin and Gwendoline Hugo (nee Sauerbier) made a home on the property and planted the original dry grown Grenache bush vines that are still used today.
1968
From an early age, John worked with his father Colin in the vineyard and in 1968 he made the Hugo vineyard his career.
1982
John opened the cellar door with the first wines being Shiraz and Port produced from Hugo estate grown fruit.
1980's
John Hugo ran the vineyard and winery and in 1986 Brian Light was appointed Head Winemaker to work with John.
1989 & 1991
Matt & Will Hugo were born and raised on the family vineyards.
1993
John and Liz Hugo continued to expand the vineyard and wine range.
1995
Vintage time always meant a helping hand from their boys, Will and Matt.
1998
A momentous occasion, John & Liz opened the architecturally designed Hugo Wines Cellar Door.
2005
Hugo Wines went on to win a number of significant trophies. Their 2005 Shiraz won the trophy for ‘Best Shiraz’ at the Royal Melbourne Wine Show.
2016
Renae Hirsch joins Hugo Wines as head winemaker.
2016
Will Hugo rejoins the family business after a stint working in finance, commerce and agribusiness, overseeing the vineyard and winery operations.
2021
The Hugo Vineyard goes through significant changes to introduce varieties that are well suited to McLaren Vale: Fiano, Grenache Gris, Tempranillo & Nero d'Avola.
2024
Hugo Wines receives a number of significant awards including the Trophy for Best Rose (2023 Rose) at the McLaren Vale Wine Show and Best Fiano (2024 Fiano) at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show.
2025
Will, along with Renae, John and Liz, continues to work on soil & vine health; responding to growing conditions and seeking to maximise every aspect of Hugo Wines.
