Petaluma, based at Spring Gully Rd Piccadilly SA, has been one of the jewels in the Lion Nathan crown since 2001, but its reputation is due to one man – Brian Croser.

In 1976 Brian founded Petaluma with a vision: to create ultra-premium wines by selecting the best sites within a particular region suited to a specific variety and achieve the best possible expression from each site.

To that end Petaluma have vineyards in the Eastern slate hills of the Clare Valley – perfect for producing high quality Riesling; in the ‘terra rossa’ of the Coonawarra – the top spot for their Cabernet and Merlot, the prominent cool climate of the Adelaide Hills and the seven ‘distinguished sites’ in the Piccadilly Valley – Chardonnay vineyards around 30yrs old.

In the early years much guidance was given by Len Evans who acted as chairman but quickly Brian Croser became known as a technician of infinite standing, impressing with his uncompromising approach to all aspects of viticulture and winemaking.

The name Petaluma is taken from the Northern Californian city Brian often drove through while he was studying winemaking at the University of California.

All Petaluma’s 240ha of vineyards are managed with a natural approach, reducing environmental impact and supporting sustainable viticultural practices. They are working towards achieving a balanced natural biodiversity.

Since 2004, Petaluma’s winemaking has been overseen by the extremely capable Andrew Hardy

The Petaluma cellar door sits in the heritage listed Bridgewater Mill at Mt Barker Road Bridgewater, in the Adelaide Hills. - Daniel Jess