Vale Brian Stonier AO

A Pioneer of the Mornington Peninsula Wine Story

The Mornington Peninsula has lost one of its true pioneers. Kenneth Brian “Brian” Stonier AO, founder of Stonier Wines and a visionary who helped shape our region’s identity, passed away recently at the age of 93.

A Champion of the Peninsula

In 1978, Brian established Stonier Wines in Merricks, long before the Peninsula was known for its cool-climate wines. What began as a bold idea grew into one of Australia’s most respected wineries and helped set the tone for the region’s rise on the world stage. In 1997, Stonier’s Reserve Pinot Noir was named Best New World Red Wine by Decanter Magazine. The award confirmed what locals already knew: the Peninsula could produce wines of extraordinary character.

Even after selling the winery, Brian remained closely connected. He was proud to see Stonier return to local family ownership in 2022 and delighted by the new generation of wines being made from the cellar door.

A Life Beyond Wine

Brian’s vision stretched far beyond the vineyard. He was Managing Director of Penguin Publishing, co-founded Sun Books, and served in leadership roles with the Victorian College of the Arts, the National Gallery of Victoria, The Arts Centre Trust, and the National Library of Australia. His contribution to Australia’s cultural life was recognised when he was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).

A Lasting Legacy

Those who knew Brian speak of his energy, intellect, and generosity of spirit. He asked not for a funeral, but for friends and family to raise a glass and celebrate life together. It is a sentiment that perfectly reflects the man himself.

On the Peninsula, his legacy is felt everywhere: in the rows of vines across Red Hill, Merricks and Balnarring, in the thriving cellar doors that welcome locals and visitors, and in the sense of community that comes from sharing a glass of wine among friends.