Our History
Wolfgang Franz Otto Blass was born in Germany in 1934.
After Wolf ran away from school, his parents gave him an ultimatum: start a 3-year winemaking apprenticeship or get back to class. And so began a journey which changed the winemaking world.
After studying Champagne techniques in France in 1957, Wolf became the youngest person ever to graduate with a Masters in Oenology (Wine Science) from Veitschoechheim-Wuerzberg. In 1959, he moved to England to study the art of blending before moving to the Barossa Valley in 1961, deciding against a move to Venezuela. In 1966, he established Wolf Blass Wines.
Wolf’s Philosophy
I believe that I was born under the lucky star of Virgo, with a practical attitude and application towards life.
I have a strong sense of pride. I believe in honesty and integrity, and I always call a spade “a shovel”. I have developed a clearly fixed code of honour. Once a deal is done and a word given, I believe there is no room for wavering or breaking promises.
I believe that self-motivation is the key to being successful and I tend to be a workaholic. I believe if you want to do things right, it will take time, effort and energy. If you want to get a quick return, you will not be around for very long.
The most enjoyable professional experience and challenge in my life has been to achieve those things that many critics said couldn’t be done. I am not satisfied with second best!
My philosophy has always been based on Quality, Character and Consistency.
I attribute my success to being surrounded by and leading a team of happy, open minded people. There have been many wonderful, professional people whose dedicated efforts helped make it all possible-grape growers, winemakers, cellar hands, production managers, technical and engineering staff, secretaries, label designers, marketing and sales staff, distributors (national and overseas), wine judges, media, and most of all, the loyal consumers.
Special thanks must go to Ian Hickinbotham who was responsible for bringing me to Australia by offering me a contract with Kaiser Stuhl.
I believe in self-discipline, camaraderie and long friendships, and I share my emotions and feelings with my friends.
I believe in inspiration and sometimes rainbows.
Life has been good to me.
Thank you Australia for making it all possible.
Wolf Blass