Don McWilliam AM Recognised by Hunter Valley Community
The Hunter Valley wine community has paid tribute to retired McWilliam's Wines Group Chairman, Don McWilliam AM, by awarding him the 2011 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend Award.
The Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend Award pays tribute to individuals who have shown long term vision and commitment to the betterment of the Hunter Valley Wine Industry.
Don McWilliam joined McWilliams Wines in 1951 and completed his first vintage at Mount Pleasant with the legendary Maurice O'Shea in 1954. In 1957, Don was appointed Director of the company and over the next five decades played a significant role in the development of both the Hunter Valley and Australian Wine industry.
Don became a Member of the Order of Australia in 2003 in recognition of more than 50 years service to the Australian Wine Industry. During his career he was active on the boards of The Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation, Australian Wine & Brandy Producers' Association, The Australian Wine Board, and The Winemakers' Federation of Australia.
In 1990, Don introduced the prestigious McWilliam's Maurice O'Shea Award and was later recognised himself when he became a Patron of the Wine Industry in 1994 and received the NSW Graham Gregory Award in 1995.
In a very special event for McWilliam's, the Mount Pleasant labels and wines from legendary winemaker Maurice O'Shea were recognised with the 2011 Heritage Award. The Hunter Valley Heritage Award acknowledges landmarks or items of historical importance that have influenced the course of, or made a significant contribution to the Hunter Valley Wine Industry.
