If you’ve spent any time scrolling through our social media feeds or watching our YouTube channel, you’ve almost certainly run into Brian Spencer. Whether he’s giving an update on the season's vintage, testing baume, singing to the grapes or leading our Rent-a-Row grape picking teams, Brian is the heartbeat, the history, and the official "President (for now)" of Shiraz Republic.
As the founder of Shiraz Republic, Brian is the man who looked at the rich, red Cambrian soil of Cornella back in 2002 and decided to plant the first Shiraz vines on what used to be the historic Cornella Post Office site. Over two decades later, his original vision of building an inclusive, democratic "wine of the people" community has grown from a “hobby farm” into the vibrant tourism and hospitality business we all enjoy today—farm, winery, music venue, cellar door, and Canola Walk.
Brian’s path to viticulture wasn't a traditional one. With a background spanning 50 years in community development, social welfare, and parish ministry, Brian has always been a people person first and a farmer second. When he established the winery, his "covert mission" wasn't just to make premium Heathcote wine—it was to strip away the snobbery and democratise it.
He wanted a space where fine wine could be shared simply and enjoyed by everyday people. While his son, Spencer Page, has taken over the hands-on winemaking reins in recent years, Brian remains the ultimate custodian of the land, the culture, and the "wine by the people" philosophy that drives our Rent-a-Row program.
It’s no surprise to anyone who knows Brian that he has become a breakout favourite across our social media platforms. From deep-dive vineyard tours on YouTube to quick, witty snippets on our Shorts and Reels, Brian’s presence gives visitors an authentic, unfiltered look into life at Cornella.
He’s a natural storyteller with a sharp wit, a deep love for the local region, and a genuine passion for teaching people exactly what a ripe bunch of Shiraz grapes looks, feels, and tastes like.
1. You planted the first vines here nearly 25 years ago. Did you ever imagine the Shiraz Republic would become what it is today? "Not in my wildest dreams! When we started, it was just about showcasing the incredible premium fruit this region can produce. But because of my background in community work, I’ve always believed that wine is meant to be a shared experience—a ritual of hospitality. Seeing it evolve into a community hub where people can make their own wine, listen to live music, and hang out on the deck is incredibly rewarding."
2. People love seeing you pop up on our social feeds and YouTube channel. Do you enjoy being the 'face' of Shiraz Republic online? "I just love talking to people! Digital media is really just a bigger farm porch to chat from. If a short video lets us share a bit of the humour, the seasonal struggles, and the beauty of farm life with someone sitting at home in the city, then I’m happy to step in front of the camera."
3. Of all the initiatives you’ve started here, is there one you're proudest of? "The Rent-a-Row program, without a doubt. It completely captures our entire philosophy of 'democracy in wine.' Watching someone go from knowing nothing about viticulture to standing right here, hand-plunging their own grapes, creating memorable moments, and taking home a bottle with their own name on the label—that’s what Shiraz Republic is all about."
4. When you're sitting back at the end of a busy weekend, what's your ultimate Shiraz Republic pour? "It has to be our Signature Shiraz. I watched these vines grow from tiny rootstocks in the red dirt, so every glass tastes like a bit of our history to me. You can’t beat it."
5. What is your golden rule for anyone visiting the Shiraz Republic for the first time? "Leave your pretension at the gate. Come as you are, ask plenty of questions, look at the view, and enjoy good company. We’re a republic of the people, after all!"
Next time you’re visiting the cellar door, look out for Brian. He’s usually not too far from the action, always ready to share a story, a laugh, or a recommendation on the current vintage.
Want to experience Brian’s original vision in person? Book a tasting at the cellar door, or explore our Rent-A-Row program to see how you can become part of the history he started.
Our Signature Shiraz, showcasing the best Heathcote Shiraz with subtle, spicy oak.