About

Norman Tranter CV

My wine experience started in University days. I have visited all the major wine growing areas in Australia. After a lot of research I planted my first vineyard in 1971. My first visit to France in 1975 confirmed my strong interest in French wine. After assisting several winemakers and a lot of research in 1990, I started the Caledonia Australis Wine Company at Leongatha. I led all the major developments – site selection, selection of grape varieties, clones, viticulture, winemaker, winemaking style, marketing & sales distribution. My focus was always high quality. I regularly received 95 & 96 points from James Halliday for my Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. When Halliday instituted his 5 red stars group (top 5% for quality in Australia) I was included. From time to time, I was the general manager and sales manager until I sold Caledonia Australis Wine Company in 2010.

I then started Bijoux Wines Pty Ltd, a wine importing business with a focus on France. I only import directly from the producer to sell exclusively in Australia. For all the producers in my portfolio I have inspected their vineyards, winery & barrel storage as well as discussing wine making in depth with the producer. I only select producers who have the commitment and drive to produce top quality wines. My aim is to have a small portfolio of very high quality producers at a sensible price. All wines are shipped directly from the producer and transported in temperature controlled vehicles & containers.

  • Marchand Frères cellar
    Tortochot cellar Gevrey Chambertin