Pioneering winemaker who helped introduce Aussie labels to the world dies at 73: 'A true original'
An iconic Australian winemaker has died at the age of 73.
News of the passing of Simon Hackett, owner of Simon Hackett Wines, broke on Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the wine industry.
Simon Hackett Wines produced up to 20,000 cases of wine each year and had global export deals, particularly in the UK, where he helped introduce many to premium Australian wine in the 1990s.
Michael Awin, a managing partner of UK importer Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies (ABS), knew Mr Hackett for more than 40 years and described him as 'larger than life'.
'His laconic humour, joie de vivre, and way with words made him a joy to be around. He was a great winemaker when he could be bothered, but it was his personality that really shone through in his wines,' he wrote in a statement.
'I vividly remember a prestigious tasting in London where a guest was pressing him with technical questions while the rest of the room was itching to taste.
'When asked what sort of soil he had in his vineyards, Simon paused and simply replied 'brown' to rapturous applause.
'He will be fondly remembered across the UK wine trade as both a talented winemaker and a true original.'
Celebrated winemaker Simon Hackett (above) died at the age of 73
The winery in McLaren Vale has become a popular wedding venue
Mr Hackett was born in the Barossa Valley, northeast of Adelaide, and grew up neighbouring the Saltram winery in Angaston.
He worked at a vineyard from 18 years old before opening his own boutique winery overlooking McLaren Vale, south of Adelaide in 1984.
Mr Hackett retired from winemaking in September 2025, and his business closed its winemaking arm in November following a lease dispute.
He then filed for bankruptcy in December with Simon Hackett Wines having accrued $2.5million in unsecured debt.
His cellar door underwent a major renovation in 2020 and 2021 as part of a new strategy to focus on hosting functions, particularly weddings.
The property has since been sold and is due to settle in March.
Mr Hackett died on January 23 after suffering a stroke. He joins his long-term partner Deirdre Holt, who died in a fire at their winery in 2009.
Emanuel Skorpos from Flinders Run winery, in the Southern Flinders Ranges, also shared a tribute to his 'friend, mentor and second dad'.
Mr Hackett (above) retired in September, 2025, shortly before his business' winemaking arm closed
'You always made time for me, answered my questions and gave me the right advice,' he said.
'Life for you was never the same when you lost Deirdre, that zest for life, the thrill of the chase had been ripped from your heart, yet you soldiered on.
'You will be sadly missed my friend, my mentor, my second dad – your memory will remain forever eternal.'
