McWilliam's

Eliza Jane

Eliza Jane McWilliam was the family’s first female vineyard manager and winemaker. Following the passing of her father Samuel McWilliam in 1902, Eliza Jane managed the Sunnyside vineyard and winery operations with the support of her two younger sisters, Rose May and Mary.

"Close to Corowa, Miss McWilliam manages an 80 acre vineyard on behalf of her sisters and herself. The vineyard, established by the late Mr. McWilliam, is in good condition and Miss McWilliam's first year of office has been signalised by a very full vintage. The vintage was put through in good style and Miss McWilliam had no trouble with the numerous people employed. She engaged boys at 18s per week and found them excellent pickers and most reliable. The wines are of the full-bodied, sweet kinds and the manageress is evidently capable of keeping up the reputation of the cellars".

The Sydney Morning Herald in 1904 reports in a series "On the Land"

Under Eliza Jane’s leadership, they were able to sustain the business for a few years before selling the property to her brother J.J. McWilliam in 1906. Eliza Jane’s tenacity and grace shall never be forgotten by our family, and we continue to honour and uphold her legacy with the most premium Shiraz offering in our portfolio.

McWILLIAM'S ELIZA JANE SHIRAZ 750ML

Named after the McWilliam family's first female winemaker and vineyard manager, Eliza Jane. This is premium, cool-climate Shiraz at its best. A soaring perfumed nose of floral spices, white pepper, concentrated red fruits and background toasty oak. A silky medium bodied, spice laden wine with complex red berried fruits. Tannins are impeccably detailed-long & fine boned, showcasing the granite nature of the soils. Pure, fresh, floral & concentrated. Modern cool climate Shiraz at its best. Vintage 2018: Subject to change without notice.

McWilliam's Family Winemakers celebrate their centenary