Parker Coonawarra Estate
John and Faye Parker established Parker Coonawarra Estate in 1985, following John’s long-standing connection with the region. Today, the privately owned estate remains true to his uncompromising standards, with a focus on expressing the unique character of Coonawarra’s celebrated Terra Rossa soils—widely regarded as the benchmark for classic Australian Cabernet Sauvignon.
The estate’s first release, the 1988 First Growth, was an immediate success, winning the Penfold Hyland Trophy and achieving international recognition at the 1991 International Wine Challenge in London. It quickly cemented Parker Estate’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading producers.
Over the decades, Parker Estate has continued to collect numerous awards and accolades, maintaining a Five Star rating from James Halliday and achieving Langton’s Classification V for Excellence.
While Cabernet remains at the heart of the estate, the range has expanded to include Chardonnay, Shiraz and Merlot. The Terra Rossa Merlot is a standout—sourced from select parcels within the vineyard that consistently produce exceptional fruit. A refined, structured Merlot with depth and ageing potential, it reflects both site and the estate’s commitment to quality.