Jacob’s Creek appoints new chief winemaker

Pernod-owned Jacob’s Creek has announced the appointment of a new chief winemaker, as Bernard Hickin steps down after 40 years with the company.

Bernard Hicken

Bernard Hickin is set to retire from his position as chief winemaker in June 2016 after 40 years working with the company. Hickin joined the business (then known as G Gramp & Sons) in 1976, the same year Jacob’s Creek officially launched.

Hickin was appointed company chief winemaker of Australian brands at Jacob’s Creek in 2006, and in 2010 he was made Jacob’s Creek global chief winemaker. During this time, Hickin was instrumental in taking the company toward sparkling wine production and varietal labelling.

Bernard will be succeeded by Ben Bryant, an Australian winemaker who joined Pernod Ricard Winemakers (then Orlando Wines) in 2000.

Ben Bryant

He has since held a number of key winemaking positions, including chief winemaker for Wyndham Estate, as well as holding various positions in the company’s operational, marketing and brand development departments.

“I have inherited not only a world-class brand in Jacob’s Creek, but a world-class team of passionate winemakers who have worked tirelessly to make the brand what it is today – and I look forward to joining them on the next stage of the journey”, said Bryant of his appointment.

Bernard will remain with Pernod Ricard Winemakers until June 2016 as international winemaker.

Brett McKinnon, global operations director for Pernod Ricard Winemakers said: “We are extremely grateful for the contribution that Bernard has made towards our success. He will be missed by the team and we wish him all the very best for his retirement.”