Kiwi winemaker Sam Connew has established Stargazer Wines in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley, seeking to create wines that encapsulate a unique sense of place and time. As she approaches her 15th vintage with Stargazer, Connew reflects on her journey, emphasizing how passion and instinct have shaped her career.
Her achievements are remarkable, having worked a decade at Wirra Wirra in McLaren Vale, where she earned the title of International Red Winemaker of the Year in 2007 at the International Wine Challenge, followed by the 2025 ASVO Winemaker of the Year award. She also made history by becoming the youngest and first female chair of judges at the Sydney Royal Wine Show in 2014, advocating for change in the Australian wine industry.
Raised in Christchurch, Connew initially pursued a law degree, but her interest in wine blossomed during a part-time job at a local wine bar. The early ’90s marked a transformation in New Zealand’s wine landscape, with smaller producers gaining recognition, which inspired her to study winemaking after experiencing the rich winery culture in Adelaide.
Connew’s first taste of winemaking came in Oregon, where she fell in love with the physical demands of the job. Encouraged by a colleague, she bought Huon Valley Pinot Noir grapes in 2012, marking the inception of Stargazer Wines. By 2016, she resolved to purchase her own vineyard in Coal River Valley when access to fruit became a challenge.
The vineyard, located conveniently near Hobart and offering vital water security, has become the cornerstone of her endeavors. A recently opened tasting room showcases the evolution of her wines, reflecting both the maturation of her craft as well as the unique terroir of the Tea Tree sub-region.
Connew’s philosophy diverges from Australia’s tendency toward uniformity, aiming instead for wines that genuinely express the nuances of the vintage and the location. Her nonconformist approach has positioned Stargazer Wines as a noteworthy establishment in Tasmania’s winemaking community, achieving recognition that extends beyond its initial side project roots.