A former track rider for the Hayes family at Lindsay Park, Nat joined Yalumba in 1999 in the laboratory then undertaking her Bachelor degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University.

Since completing her studies, Nat has enjoyed both commercial and artisan experience working for the Hill Smith family’s estate vineyards, including Oxford Landing Estates and Dalrymple. She has also undertaken an international vintage at Clos Figueres in Priorat, Spain, an ultra-premium winery producing world-class DOQ wines.

Nat is an experienced wine show judge, having judged in numerous capital city and regional wine shows as well as being a graduate of the world renowned Len Evans Tutorial. Two-time finalist for Australian Women in Wine awards, Winemaker of the year.

A passion for premium handcrafted red wines has seen Nat develop a sense of patience and faith in the ability of great fruit to become outstanding wine.

“Over the years, I have developed a love for Cabernet Sauvignon; this noble variety has given me a great faith in a hands-off approach to winemaking,” she said.

“This variety provides the excitement of facing the challenges and the ultimate reward of allowing the vineyard to speak”

“I find winemaking not dissimilar to the racing world – both involve the growing and handling of fine stock in the hope you can create something special and memorable.”