About

Dominique Portet brought centuries of winemaking tradition to the Yarra Valley when he founded his namesake estate in 2000. Born in Cognac and raised at Château Lafite-Rothschild, where his father was régisseur (vineyard & winery manager), wine was part of life from the beginning. After studying oenology in Montpellier and serving as a wine-buying adviser during military service, he honed his craft in the Médoc, Rhône, Provence, Champagne and Napa before pioneering cool-climate winemaking in Australia with Taltarni and Clover Hill.

Attracted the beauty and potential of the Yarra Valley, he saw a structure and elegance that reminded him of Bordeaux. His vision was clear: to craft wines with fragrance, finesse and global character:, grounded in French heritage and shaped by Australian terroir.

Ben grew up immersed in the world of wine, inheriting both a legacy and a deep respect for the craft. Raised between vineyards and barrels, he developed a strong sense of tradition but also a quiet determination to make his own mark. After studying oenology in Adelaide, he worked vintages at some of the world’s leading estates, including Château Beychevelle in Bordeaux, Louis Roederer in Champagne, and Vineyard 29 in Napa Valley. These experiences shaped his winemaking approach.

In 2008, Ben returned to Coldstream to take on the role of chief winemaker. Since then, he has created wines that are thoughtful and precise, shaped by handpicked fruit, small-batch methods and a deep understanding of site. Like the estate itself, Ben’s approach reflects a quiet confidence, deeply rooted in both family and place.

Anthony brings energy, instinct and a sharp eye for detail to the winemaking team at Dominique Portet. Since joining the winery in 2021, he has been inspired by the Portet family’s genuine passion for wine and their commitment to quality, from vineyard to bottle.

Drawn initially by the chance to develop his skills in the cellar, Anthony quickly formed a strong connection to the place and its people. Being trusted as part of the winery’s ongoing story is something he holds with real respect and pride. Working closely with Ben Portet, he loves the challenge of crafting thoughtful, site driven wines and brings care and attention to every stage of the process. Known for his dry humour, serious tattoo game and a well chosen playlist, Anthony is a valued part of both the cellar and the wider Dominique Portet family.

Favourite Wine Moment: Tasting wine from a foudre during my first harvest with winemaker Sam Davies was a turning point. Hearing him speak so passionately about the wine, standing in the quiet of the cellar, I realised this was the path I wanted to follow.

Ella brings curiosity and energy to the Dominique Portet team. Having grown up around horse racing and hospitality, good wine was always part of her world, and the wine industry quickly felt like the perfect blend of farming and people, hands on work with room for her social side to shine.

She completed her first harvest in Nelson at 17 and was hooked from the start. From there, Ella moved to Hawke’s Bay, working at Craggy Range. After harvest 2024, she travelled through Europe, completing a vintage in Sicily with Arianna Occhipinti, before returning to Australia for vintage 2025 at Stonier.

Now part of the team at Dominique Portet, Ella brings a genuine love of wine, a strong work ethic and a bright presence to the cellar. She is also studying wine science through Charles Sturt University and is excited to keep learning and getting her hands dirty.

Favourite Wine Memory: Ferments in the air and sticky pump-overs. Nothing beats skins underfoot in your first dig out of harvest. Pure magic.