People

919 Wines is a private company with a small but flexible workforce. Between the two Principals the company has over 40 years experience in the wine industry. The company has a commitment to training young people, and employs people in cellar operations, administration, sales and production. 

Eric Semmler,  Director & Chief Winemaker

Eric Semmler is a Director and Winemaker for the company, overseeing the vineyards, cellar and winemaking operations. Originally a horticulturalist, he studied winemaking, worked with Brown Brothers and All Saints wineries, and then became the Fortified Winemaker with BRL Hardy. He is now one of Australia’s most respected fortified winemakers, and acknowledged as an Australian authority on the production of the heritage Apera and Topaque styles of wine.

Eric is a regular wine judge for Winestate Magazine.

Other roles:

Chair, Berri Lutheran Pastoral Assistants

Previously: Chair, Riverland Wine Show

Jenny Semmler,  Director & Company Secretary, Head of Marketing

Jenny Semmler is the Company Secretary and Director, and oversees the marketing, bottling and administration of the company. Originally a pharmacist, she studied winemaking, later undertaking research in wine flavour development. After working for Strathbogie Vineyards, Pennyweight Wines and St Huberts, she took a position as Quality Manager for Constellation Wines, and was recognised as one of the world specialists in bag in box wine production.

Other roles:

Convenor: Riverland Small Winemakers Showcase

Previously:

Board member, Destination Riverland,

Co-ordinator, Riverland Creative Writing Group

 

Seamus Donaghey,  Assistant Winemaker

 

Seamus Donaghey is our young assistant winemaker, currently undertaking his study of a Bachelor of Wine Science through Charles Sturt University. Acquiring a keen interest in wine through work at the Riverland Wine Centre he has quickly picked up the skills and enthusiasm required to be a great winemaker and we look forward to seeing where his studies lead him. 

Other roles:

Board member, Riverland Wine Show