Sam Barry joined the Jim Barry Wines team in 2011 as Commercial Manager while studying at the University of Adelaide. He graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Commerce degree specialising in accounting and finance.
Sam completed his first vintage as a cellar hand at Jim Barry Wines in 2007 and followed this with three consecutive part time vintages at the Wilson Vineyard at Polish Hill River, under the guidance of winemaker Daniel Wilson. In 2011 he completed two separate vintages with Hoddles Creek Estate in Victoria (Australia) and also in Italy at Benevelli Piero (Monforte d’Alba, Piemonte). 2013 saw him undertake vintage in Burgundy at Thibault Liger-Belair. Sam is currently completing his WSET diploma.
In 2013 Tom and Sam released The Barry Brothers Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon, the first wine developed independently by the brothers. This wine, helped them become the youngest winemakers to take out the classic Australian Best Shiraz/Cabernet Blend Trophy at the 2014 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards. This followed a trophy win for The Barry Brothers at the 2014 Royal Queensland Wine Show.
In 2015, Sam Barry was selected by the Australian Grape and Wine Authority as one of 15 rising stars for its Future Leaders 2015 program.
Coordinated by Australian Grape and Wine Authority in partnership with Wine and Grape Growers Australia and Winemakers’ Federation of Australia, the program was designed to develop participants’ leadership capabilities and encourage innovation and thoughtful debate on the future of the sector.
“Future Leaders is about ensuring the next generation has the support and skills necessary to lead the way. There is a critical need for their innovation and fresh thinking in decision making,” WFA Chief Executive Paul Evans said.
The selection criteria helped uncover applicants with open, creative, inquisitive minds, leadership potential and demonstrated commitment to the success of the Australian wine sector.
Sam now shares the role of General Manager with brother Tom
