Grapevine plantings took place in 1972 and the first wines were made in 1975, but the challenges of limited capital led to the acquisition of Chapel Hill by the Sellick and Gerard families in 1979. By 1985 Chapel Hill was exclusively owned by Adelaide’s Gerard family who further invested in vineyards and winery development. Importantly, the family employed winemaker Pam Dunsford, a wine industry legend, who paved the way for women working as winemakers in the Australian wine industry. Her story of determination, remarkable talent and endurance in what was then a male-dominated world inspired many other women to follow in her footsteps. Pam Dunsford was also the first female wine judge on the Australian wine show circuit. She credited wine expert Len Evans for giving her the crucial break. But, ultimately, her lasting contribution to the development of the McLaren Vale is her legacy. Chapel Hill became a highly respected name and renowned for its easily accessible yet classic wine styles. In 2021 Pam Dunsford was awarded a ‘Degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) in recognition of her pioneering work in Australian winemaking, blazing a trail for women winemakers and championing the South Australian wine industry in a career spanning more than 40 years’. After her retirement, winemaker Michael Fragos, who arrived at Chapel Hill in 2004, became chief winemaker and CEO. With a Graduate Diploma in Oenology, a degree in Genetics and Microbiology, and a
Michael Fragos, Chief Winemaker and CEO
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