The old Houghtons winery in the Swan Valley will be named Nikola Estate and homage to the almost century-long affiliation the Yukich family has had with the region.
The family bought the winery and associated assets from Accolade Wines. Settlement was finalised this week.
Graeme Yukich, third-generation Swan Valley local (along with brother Kim Yukich) and director of The Y Group of Companies said, “We are very proud to be able to bring this iconic vineyard and heritage site back into WA ownership.
“We will be rebranding the site to mark the change in ownership and to encourage rediscovery of all aspects of the business, from exciting wines to bespoke events and concerts.”
Nikola Yukich emigrated from Croatia and planted his first vines in the Swan Valley more than 90 years ago. The family also owns Oakover Grounds, land acquired by Mark Yukich (Nikola’s son) from the original allocation to Houghton. With the family’s purchase of Nikola Estate, the original Houghton lands are finally reunited.
Dr Anthony Robinson has been appointed as COO of the newly-merged site. Tony returns to WA having spent several years working both internationally and nationally, most recently for Treasury Wine Estates as its Grape & Wine Innovation Specialist. He is also a director and the president of The Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology.
“With Tony joining our efforts to reinvigorate the site and our wine offering, we are very optimistic about what innovation and thought leadership we can bring to the market,” Graeme Yukich says.
Tony will develop the site’s strategy focusing on premium wine production, events and a desire to grow tourism and visitation to the Swan Valley. “As we confirm our operational objectives in the coming months, we will be engaging with the public and industry bodies to keep everyone updated and informed,” he says.
The Yukich family’s other assets include European Foods, Blue Cow Cheese, the FiORi and Crema Coffee companies as well as The Northbridge Coffee Roasters and Supreme Coffee Machines.
“Building upon these businesses, Nikola Estate will be offering the very best in food, coffee and wine to encourage visitors to rediscover the exquisite heritage buildings and gardens,” Graeme says.
“The rebranding of asset and communications will be taking place over summer – and Nikola Estate has already lined up some exciting and premium events for early in the New Year.”
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