A Yarra Valley Legend, Rob Dolan is known for this skill in the winery, passion for helping others, and cheeky character.

Rob grew up in Riverland South Australia and loved having a wine with his mum, which led to the nickname “Riesling”.

After an AFL football career and two premierships under his belt, Rob set his sights on Winemaking, and kicked-off his career in the Hunter Valley before heading to Yarra Ridge.

Rob is credited with much of the success of Yarra Ridge in the early 90’s, leading to the Yarra Valley as the iconic region we know it today.

Rob went on to build two more contract winemaking ventures and in doing so launched two highly successful Yarra Valley brands – Sticks and Punt Road. (“Sticks” being Rob’s nickname as a premiership ruckman with Port Adelaide Football Club… don’t hold that against him!)

Rob ventured out on his own in 2010, his first vintage was made with borrowed grapes and the help of mates. Within two years, he moved to the current Rob Dolan Winery in Warrandyte South. Within four years, James Halliday named Rob Dolan Wines the Top Newcomer Winery of the Year.

Today, 11 years later, as Rob’s wines continue to gain momentum around Australia and the world, his focus remains on strong relationships with growers and supporting his young and diverse team.

Today, Rob Dolan Wines has a new home at Killara Estate. A remarkable place to enjoy food and wine in a warm, welcoming and relaxing setting. Only an hour from Melbourne on one of the most picturesque sites in the upper Yarra Valley.

Joining Rob in this next chapter is Leo Palazzo, who has come on as a partner in the business. Leo brings the operational depth that lets Rob do what he does best – make wine. The two of them, with a small and committed team behind them, are stronger together than either would be on their own.

The winemaking itself hasn't changed. Cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, made the way Rob has always made them – built on long relationships with growers and a quiet belief in the region.