Brother John May SJ AM, the long-serving winemaker of Sevenhill Cellars in Clare Valley, passed away on August 18, 2021, at the age of 92. John was the seventh Jesuit winemaker at Sevenhill, a position he held from 1972 until his retirement in 2003. The winery was founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus, a Catholic order commonly known as the Jesuits.
A Life in Service of Wine and Faith
"John's involvement in the cellars, St. Aloysius Church, and in later years the in-house retreat center characterized Brother John's deep devotion to an active, yet contemplative and devout faith," says Jesuit Provincial, Father Quyen Vu SJ. He remembers John as a man who cared for and welcomed younger Jesuits like an older brother.
Born in Sydney in 1929, John joined the Jesuits in 1949 and was first sent to the Jesuit winery in Sevenhill in 1963. After the sudden death of Brother John Hanlon SJ in 1972, John was called back to take on the role of winemaker. Without formal qualifications, he relied on his craftsmanship and the knowledge he had acquired during his time at Sevenhill.
Under his leadership, Sevenhill expanded, and production grew from 80 to 500 tons per year by 1990. Brother John was also a founding member of the Clare Valley Vine Improvement Society and the first president of the Clare Valley Tourist Association.
Jonathan O’Neill, CEO of Sevenhill Cellars, emphasizes: "John May was a great man, one of the true gentlemen of the Australian wine industry and community, who will be sorely missed."
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We too have come to know and appreciate Br John May personally over the years.
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Sevenhill Cellars: A Historical Legacy
The origins of Sevenhill Cellars date back to the 16th century, when a young Spanish courtier named Inigo gave up his life of violence to help others and founded the religious order we know today as the Jesuits. The first fathers and brothers of the Society of Jesus arrived in Australia in 1848 and established their mission in the beautiful hills of the Clare Valley. They planted the first vines in 1851 and began local production five years later, with a focus on providing sacramental wine.
Sevenhill Cellars, the first winery in the Clare Valley, has a rich history and tradition that continues to this day. It stands not only for first-class wines but also for a deep religious heritage and a community dedicated to excellence and service to others.
