Mel McWilliam

MEL MCWILLIAM

Mel grew up in Sydney and was immersed in the world of wine from an early age. She has fond memories of her Grandfather, telling tales of working in the vineyards, and remembers childhood visits to the Hanwood Estate Winery.

During her time at Macquarie University, while completing a Biology degree, Mel participated in a 2-year cadetship at McWilliam’s to explore all aspects of the family winemaking business and gain valuable experience in the laboratories. After finishing her studies in 2018, Mel joined the McWilliam’s winemaking team as their Laboratory Assistant for the 2018 vintage and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, moving into the Senior Laboratory role just one year later. 

Mel remained in this role for two years before the heightened passion for crafting wines inspired  Mel to enrol in a Bachelor of Wine Science at Charles Sturt University and take on the role as Assistant Winemaker for the Hanwood team. Balancing her winemaking studies with her full time role, Mel looks to complete her course in 2022 whilst gaining valuable experience with the senior winemaking teams. 

Mel feels that being part of the McWilliam’s business is a unique way of feeling connected to her family - the five generations who came before her and the current generation. Mel is proud to continue her family’s legacy and looks forward to joining the McWilliam’s winemaking team in the near future.