Winemaking legend John Glaetzer of John's Blend interviewed and visiting Switzerland

Shortly before John flies to Switzerland to meet us, we were able to conduct a short interview with him. He is probably one of Australia's living winemaker legends and his wines have been among the best for decades. Read a short intro now, followed by an interview with John Glaetzer from John's Blend. And don't forget: you can meet John Glaetzer in person in Switzerland in June at three of our tastings.

The Vision of John and Margarete Glaetzer

John's Blend is the result of John and Margarete Glaetzer's vision to create their own unique premium wine brand. The first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon was produced under this new label in 1974. When John's Blend was launched in 1977, it was an immediate success. John had already worked with some of the greats of Australian wine, including John Vickery, and began working at Wolf Blass after graduating from the Oenology course in 1970.

John's Blend developed in parallel with John's prominent role as senior red wine winemaker at Wolf Blass Wines.

The Achievements of John Glaetzer as a Respected Winemaker

John won four of the prestigious Jimmy Watson Trophies for Australia's best red wine in 1974, 1975, 1976 and 1999, an unprecedented achievement. He also won eleven Montgomery Trophies for the best red wines at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show, to name just a few of his accolades.

It is safe to say that few others in the Australian wine scene have made a comparable contribution to the production of premium red wines as John Glaetzer. With over thirty years of experience in making premium wines, John continues to offer connoisseurs from all over the world the unique experience of John's Blend.

In 1995, Margarete's Shiraz was added. A rich and intense wine that perfectly complements the Cabernet Sauvignon.

Both John's Blend wines are strictly limited and as friendly and rewarding as their creator. They reflect, just like John and Margarete themselves, the richness and joy of Australia's best wine regions and their people.

An Interview with John

We regularly exchange ideas with our winemakers Down Under. When planning the upcoming wine tastings in Switzerland, we also conducted a short interview with John.

Beat Eichmann: Hi John! Thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions that your fans here in Switzerland might also be interested in.

John: No problem at all, always happy to, just fire away.

Let's get started: How did you get into winemaking?

My parents are both from the Clare Valley in South Australia - a wine region. My father Len worked at Norman's Wines in Adelaide in the 1960s, where he met their consulting winemaker, Wolf Blass. At that time, I had won the first Commonwealth Scholarship for the Oenology course at Roseworthy College in South Australia. I had the pleasure of working with Wolf as a cellar master for two vintages - 1966 and 1967. After graduating in 1970, I worked as his senior winemaker for over 30 years.

What comes to mind when you think of Switzerland?

Simply magical. The country, the people and the food. Switzerland is a fantastic place, as are the wonderful people I've met. What can I say, we have a perfect Swiss son-in-law who is a great husband to our daughter and a great father to their two sons.

You are exiled to an island, what 5 things would you take with you?

(1) - Red wine, (2) - Steak, (3) - Cold beer, (4) Of course my wife Margarete (the fact that she's only fourth while I'm saying that - what can I say 😊), (5) 5-star accommodation.

If you met someone who is 20 years old today, what would you recommend they do and not do?

Quite simple - do what I did. I enjoyed every minute of it.

You work closely with Ben Potts, but what still motivates you today to produce your wines for customers?

Ben Potts and his father Bill Potts are possibly the most professional grape growers in Australia. Working with their scale in their vineyards inspires me greatly. As a winemaker, it's easy for me to turn their grapes into great wines every year.

You are about to have your 50th vintage of John's Blend Cabernet Sauvignon. Those who have known you and us for a long time know that your label has never changed. What is your secret and why does almost no one else do that?

Wolf taught me many years ago: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" - that's our secret.

Thank you very much for your time and see you soon in Switzerland!

Personal Introductions at Exclusive Wine Tastings in Switzerland

We are pleased to announce that John Glaetzer, Australia's winemaking legend, is coming exclusively to Switzerland. You will have the unique opportunity to meet John Glaetzer in person at the following wine tastings:

Tasting with John Glaetzer at Hotel Euler, Basel Date: June 20 Time: 17:00 - 21:00 CEST Location: Hotel Euler, Centralbahnpl. 14, 4002 Basel

Tasting with John Glaetzer at Brasserie Lipp, Zurich Date: June 21 Time: 17:00 - 21:00 CEST Location: Brasserie Lipp, Uraniastrasse 9, 8001 Zurich

Tasting with John Glaetzer at Wyhus Ryf, Bern Date: June 22 Time: 17:00 - 21:00 CEST Location: Wyhus Ryf, Seftigenstrasse 240, 3084 Wabern

Take this unique opportunity to meet John Glaetzer in person and taste his outstanding John's Blend wines. Learn first-hand from him about his passion for wine and the stories behind his award-winning creations. Immerse yourself in the world of Australian wine and let John Glaetzer introduce you to the secrets of his craftsmanship. The wine tastings at Hotel Euler in Basel, Brasserie Lipp in Zurich and Wyhus Ryf in Bern offer the perfect atmosphere to enjoy John's Blend wines in the company of the master himself. Let yourself be inspired by the rich aromas and exceptional quality of these wines. Experience the taste of Australia and discover the fascination behind John's Blend. Secure your tickets for these exclusive events and be part of an unforgettable experience with one of Australia's most respected winemakers. Don't miss the chance to meet John Glaetzer in person and taste his exceptional wines.