The Story of Silkman Wines – From Side Project to Hunter Valley Icon

Silkman Wines began as a side project and quickly became one of Australia's most respected boutique wineries. Discover the story behind the label.

The Story of Silkman Wines – From Side Project to Hunter Valley Icon

Silkman Wines is a name now synonymous with precision winemaking in the Hunter Valley, but its origins are humble. Founded in 2013 by Liz and Shaun Silkman as a passion project, Silkman Wines started with just a few barrels in the back of First Creek Wines, where Liz served as chief winemaker. What began as a creative side venture quickly transformed into one of Australia's most celebrated boutique wine labels.

Liz Silkman, born and raised in the Hunter Valley, has always had wine in her blood. She studied winemaking at Charles Sturt University and built her experience both locally and abroad before settling into her now iconic role at First Creek. But Silkman Wines was different—it was personal. Every bottle was crafted with a focus on regional expression, small-batch detail, and minimalist intervention.

Their first few vintages—particularly the Semillon and Chardonnay—were met with critical acclaim. Liz's deft touch with white varietals quickly caught the attention of the wine industry. By 2020, the brand had a cult following among wine lovers who valued purity, texture, and restraint over flashy oak or heavy-handed winemaking.

The Philosophy Behind the Label

What makes Silkman Wines so compelling is their unwavering focus on terroir. Fruit is sourced from the Hunter’s best sites, and each wine is made in small quantities—sometimes just a single barrel. The approach is hands-off yet meticulous, letting the vineyard shine through with clarity and elegance.

The Chardonnays show beautiful line and minerality. The Semillons are age-worthy, with a citrus core and gentle structure. The Shiraz and unique Shiraz Pinot blends offer a lighter, more refined take on Hunter reds without sacrificing flavour or complexity.

A Rising Star – Liz Silkman

In 2024, Liz Silkman was named the James Halliday Wine Companion Winemaker of the Year—an award recognising not only her skill but her consistent excellence over more than a decade. She also holds the title of Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year, a rare double that cements her legacy in Australian wine history.

These accolades reflect more than just talent—they’re proof of Liz’s commitment to her craft, her region, and her customers. Every bottle of Silkman wine carries that ethos forward.

Where to Find Silkman Wines

You can now shop Silkman Wines exclusively at Wine Simple. We’re proud to offer:

  • Silkman Shiraz
  • Silkman Shiraz Pinot
  • Silkman Chardonnay
  • Silkman Reserve Chardonnay
  • Silkman Semillon

Explore our Hunter Valley wine collection to discover these and more. With Australia-wide delivery, Wine Simple brings the best of the Hunter directly to your door.

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At Wine Simple, we bring the best of Australian wine straight to your door. From Barossa Shiraz to Yarra Valley Pinot Noir, every bottle is selected by founder Matt Chalmers. We support small producers and focus on quality wines you won’t find in the big stores.