“With Italian roots and a Yarra Valley soul, Adrian crafts wine with purpose — proving it’s not what you put in, but what you leave out that makes all the difference.”
Adrian Santolin is an award-winning Australian winemaker whose roots run deep into both vineyard soil and Italian tradition. Born to Italian parents and raised on his family’s vineyard and orchard—established by his grandfather, who emigrated from the Veneto region in the 1930s—Adrian’s connection to wine began early and runs deep.
His winemaking journey formally began in 2003 in the Hunter Valley, where he quickly rose from cellar hand to assistant winemaker. A pivotal vintage in Italy further reconnected him with his heritage and deepened his passion for minimal intervention winemaking—a philosophy he describes as “not what you put in, but what you leave out.”
In 2012, Adrian and his wife Rebecca launched Santolin Wines in the Yarra Valley, starting with just two tonnes of Pinot Noir—critically acclaimed by James Halliday. Their portfolio has since grown to include Chardonnay, the Cosa Nostrarange of Italian varietals paying homage to Adrian’s heritage, and Little Saint, an easy-drinking collection crafted for sharing with loved ones.
With 14 trophies, over 50 gold medals, and nearly 200 accolades to date, Adrian continues to champion elegant, site-expressive wines with honesty, finesse, and a deep respect for both family and land.