MEET THE WINEMAKER
First Drop Wines — Bold, Fun, Seriously Good Wine
If you’ve ever had a bottle that made you grin before you even poured a glass — that’s the First Drop energy. They’re the kind of producer who can do playful labels and serious winemaking in the same breath. Their home base is the Barossa, but their fruit sources and styles span key South Australian regions — the point is simple: make wines that are exciting to drink, not just “nice to talk about.”
The Story Behind First Drop Wines
First Drop’s story starts with a simple idea: wine should be enjoyed. Born in 2004, the brand has always leaned into flavour, drinkability and personality — but that doesn’t mean they cut corners. The “fun” is the front door… the craft is what keeps you coming back.
At the centre of it is founder and winemaker John Retsas and the wider First Drop family. Their approach is grounded in a strong connection to land and a long heritage of agriculture and wine. It’s also modern — they work across a network of growers and focus hard on vineyard care so the fruit arrives with the kind of intensity you can’t fake in the winery.
First Drop’s own site describes a minimal intervention philosophy — aiming for wines that are relevant, incredibly drinkable, and true to both variety and region. That includes sourcing fruit from across South Australia’s big-hitting regions: Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, and Eden Valley. Different climates, different soils, different expressions — all tied together by a house style that’s vibrant and alive.
And then there’s the vibe: “Home of the Brave.” It’s not just a tagline — it’s a permission slip. First Drop has built a reputation for pushing boundaries while still respecting what matters: vineyard quality, balance, and wines that feel like they belong at a table (not trapped in a display cabinet).
What Makes First Drop Stand Out
- Drinkability first: flavour, texture and balance — without needing a “special occasion.”
- Minimal intervention mindset: let great fruit do the heavy lifting.
- South Australian range: styles built from Barossa, Hills, McLaren Vale and Eden diversity.
- Personality with purpose: the labels are fun — the wine is the point.
Signature Moment: Mother’s Milk (and the Awards)
If First Drop has a cult classic, it’s Mother’s Milk. It’s the wine that put a flag in the ground — a modern Barossa Shiraz built around plush fruit, smooth texture, and that “just one more glass” kind of finish.
And yes — the international spotlight has noticed. First Drop has announced that Mother’s Milk received the Wine Spectator Critics’ Choice Award for 2024 (their fourth time receiving that accolade), and it’s also been reported as a fifth win the following year.
Wines to Try at Wine Simple
Here are two First Drop bottles that capture exactly what they do best — one for sunshine, one for the grill (or the couch).
First Drop “Mother’s Milk” Barossa Shiraz 2022
The cult classic. A plush, juicy Barossa Shiraz with swagger — dark berries and plum, a hit of spice, and velvety tannins that keep it dangerously drinkable.
First Drop “Endless Summer” Pinot Grigio 2024
Summer in a sip. Bright aromatics of green apple, lime zest and pear blossom, with crisp pear and citrus on the palate and a dry, enlivening finish. Made with cool fermentation and gentle handling to keep it fresh and pure.
Why This Producer Belongs at Wine Simple
First Drop is exactly the kind of winery I love backing — a producer that keeps wine fun and approachable, while still taking quality seriously. If you’re the type who wants bottles that taste great, make sense with food, and never feel boring… you’re in the right place.
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FAQ
Where is First Drop Wines based?
First Drop is based in South Australia, with its home in the Barossa Valley and fruit sourced across key SA regions including Barossa, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and Eden Valley.
Who is the winemaker behind First Drop Wines?
Founder and winemaker John Retsas leads the First Drop family, shaping a house style built around drinkability, balance and personality.
What kind of wine is Mother’s Milk?
Mother’s Milk is a modern Barossa Shiraz — plush fruit, smooth texture, and an easy-drinking finish that still holds plenty of flavour.
What does Endless Summer Pinot Grigio taste like?
It’s bright, crisp and refreshing — think green apple, lime, pear and a clean, dry finish. Perfect for warm-weather sipping and seafood.
Do you always have First Drop Wines in stock at Wine Simple?
I restock First Drop whenever I can. If a bottle is sold out, check back soon — the good stuff doesn’t sit around for long.
