Hans Irvine

Hans William Henry Irvine (2 August 1856 – 11 July 1922) was an Australian vigneron, winemaker, and politician.

Early life

Irvine was born in Melbourne on 2 August 1856 to flour-miller John William Henry Irvine and Mary, née Gray. His father was a flourmiller of Irish parentage who had a business at Learmonth, near Ballarat. Apprenticed to a printing firm in order to learn lithography, Hans was soon foreman and acquired a share in the business. He also joined the Australian Natives' Association. He married Mary Jane Robinson (died 1915) on 7 October 1885 at Ballarat East; the couple had no children.

Vigneron

Irvine's wealth grew as he invested in various enterprises, including land, mining, and viticulture. In 1888, having sold his interest in the printing trade, he purchased the Great Western vineyard of the late Joseph Best and some grazing land, and acquired more land near Arawatta. He was fortunate to obtain the services of the French winemaker, Charles Pierlot, a former employee of the Champagne house of Pommery & Greno. Irvine was well aware of the potential market in Victoria for quality Champagne method sparkling wine and became the leading Australian commercial producer. He traveled to Europe in 1891 to learn of French wine-making practices and the possibilities of a British export market.