Jim Barry Wines is proud to announce the appointment of Topsi Wallace to the position of Senior Winemaker.

This appointment recognises Topsi’s outstanding contribution to the family‑owned winery over the past six years. During that time, she has played a pivotal role across all aspects of winemaking, consistently demonstrating exceptional technical skill, leadership, sound judgement, and a deep understanding of the Jim Barry Wines philosophy.

“Topsi has more than earned this role,” said Tom Barry, Director of Winemaking. “Her work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to lead with confidence and clarity have been evident for years. This appointment is a natural progression based on merit, experience, and results.”

In the last four years, Jim Barry Wines has achieved 206 gold medals and 64 trophies at Australian Wine Shows, making it the most awarded Riesling and Shiraz producer in the country. “Topsi has played a central role in achieving these outstanding results, of which we are incredibly proud,” said Tom.

Senior Winemaker is the highest winemaking position at Jim Barry Wines, outside of the Barry family, and carries responsibility for overseeing production, upholding quality standards across the portfolio, and mentoring the wider winemaking team.

In the winery’s 67‑year history, Topsi Wallace is the first female to hold the position of Senior Winemaker. Jim Barry Wines emphasises that although a milestone, this is the outcome of proven capability and sustained performance.

“Topsi’s role has been earned through hard work, expertise, and leadership. She has our complete trust and respect,” said Barry.

Topsi’s appointment reflects Jim Barry Wines’ long‑standing commitment to excellence, continuity, and recognising talent within the business, while continuing the legacy of one of Australia’s most respected family wineries.

About Topsi Wallace

Originally from New Zealand’s South Island, Topsi Wallace holds a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology from Lincoln University. She relocated permanently to Australia in 2019 and has completed 11 Australian vintages, alongside Northern Hemisphere experience in Canada and France, as well as vintages in her native New Zealand.

A committed lifelong learner, Topsi completed a Diploma of Business Studies through Massey University in 2022, the Australian Wine Industry Advanced Course (AWAC) in 2024, and is currently undertaking her WSET Diploma, having completed WSET Level 3 in 2025.

Beyond her role at Jim Barry Wines, Topsi is actively involved in wine judging across Australia. She has served as an Associate Judge at six different wine shows around Australia, including Adelaide Royal and Melbourne Royal Wine Shows. She is also a long‑standing member of the Clare Valley Wine Show Committee.

About Jim Barry Wines

Founded in 1959, Jim Barry Wines is a multi-generational family winery based in South Australia’s Clare Valley. Known for its benchmark Riesling, Assyrtiko, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, the Barry family is committed to producing quality, regionally focussed wines. Jim Barry Wines is a proud founding member of Australia’s First Families of Wine and a Nurse Funding Partner of the McGrath Foundation. Accreditations include SWA Certification and Toitū carbonreduce Certification.