From Dream to Bottle: The Inspiring Story of Snake + Herring Wine

Step into the extraordinary journey of Snake + Herring wine. Founded by wine enthusiasts Redmond "Herring" Sweeny and Tony "Snake" Davis in 2011, this venture emerged from their shared passion and insatiable curiosity for the world of wine. Their professional crossroads catalysed a remarkable adventure that would make a mark on Australian winemaking. 

Late-night text exchanges, early morning vineyard meetings, and boundless determination gave birth to Snake + Herring. Their debut creation, a Porongurup Riesling, was the start of something special. With Tony's geeky wine science passion, Redmond's agricultural background, and wine-selling prowess, their partnership balanced like the wines they were about to create.

Snake + Herring views the South West of Western Australia as a treasure map of vines waiting to reveal hidden gems. Winemaker Tony approaches the winemaking process with an insatiable curiosity and a fresh perspective. They dare to explore overlooked styles and regions, combining different areas and varieties to create delightful and unforgettable wines. Using hand-picking, natural fermentation, and minimal additives, Snake + Herring ensures that their wines express the unique characteristics of each vineyard with minimal intervention.
 

Sustainability is at the core of their philosophy. They join forces with passionate grape growers who share their love for exquisite wines and sustainable practices. Together, they champion practices that steer clear of insecticides and herbicides, focusing on soil enhancement through mulches, non-chemical nutrients, and reduced tillage. Several of their vineyards are on the path to organic and biodynamic certification, aligning with Snake + Herring's vision for sustainable winemaking.

Snake + Herring's love for music comes to life through their wine names, inspired by impactful songs. Each bottle tells a story, adding a unique and personal connection to the art of winemaking.

Tony Davis, the winemaker behind Snake + Herring, infuses old vineyards and winemaking traditions with a contemporary twist. With over 25 years of experience, Tony has crafted exceptional wines for renowned wineries like Howard Park, Millbrook, Brown Brothers, and Yalumba. His innovative approach and unwavering dedication continue to shape Snake + Herring's pursuit of excellence.

Western Australia's diverse grape-growing regions offer a treasure trove for viticulture. Snake + Herring fully embraces this diversity, allowing each region's unique characteristics to shine. The primary one is Margaret River, celebrated for its outstanding Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot.
 

Snake + Herring takes advantage of WA's microclimates, with Yallingup (warmer + drier) chosen for Cabernet Sauvignon, Wilyabrup for red varieties and Semillon, and Karridale (cooler + wetter) for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Semillon.

Snake + Herring's path to success has been remarkable. They recently accomplished another triumph by opening Yarri Restaurant + Bar Dunsborough, a culinary sanctuary guided by Sal Davis and renowned chef Aaron Carr. Their journey unfolds with ceaseless innovation, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to crafting extraordinary wines.

Snake + Herring's journey stands as a testament to the power of passion, curiosity, and an unwavering pursuit of winemaking excellence. With a commitment to sustainability, an infusion of music, and a dedication to showcasing Western Australia's diverse terroirs, Snake + Herring continues to craft wines that delight the palate and reflect their enduring passion for the art of winemaking.