Michael Datta - Vintner/Chief Wine Consultant

Michael first started turning his passion for wine into working reality back in 1992 when he first started visiting the Hunter Valley at the ripe young age off 22. At that time he fell in love with all aspects of wine; from growing the grapes, making the wine and then actually selling it.

Michael knew one day he would move away from what was then a corporate career and dedicate his life and future goals to producing excellent grapes, supporting small growers and producing high-end, top quality wines.

In 2000, the first stage of achieving his end goal became reality. Michael left the lucrative world of consulting/recruitment and set up a small wine business consulting firm. This business simply gave boutique wineries what they wanted; which was end-to-end business services covering, vineyards, winemaking, and sales & marketing.

2003 saw Michael take on a 12 month contract the Association of Australian Boutique Winemakers as the Vice President. He was responsible for growing the vineyard/winery membership base while developing a wide range of much needed value added services and benefits.

Michael's great recent successes include working with the team at Poverty Hill Wines, receiving a "5 STAR" rating and "TOP TEN NEW WINERY" in James Halliday's 2008 Wine Companion. He also has made wines with fellow Winemaker/Mate, John Timmins and has been awarded 4 STARS in Halliday's 2006 Wine Companion, plus winning the Gold/Trophy for their 2005 Hunter Valley Chardonnay at the Hunter Valley Boutique Winemakers Awards.

It was in 2005 that Michael decided to slowly start producing his own label MDV, which was founded in Eden valley South Australia. MDV is now all about sourcing the best grapes from outstanding little vineyards and co-making handcrafted high end wines. Michael continues to assist boutique vineyards/wineries in achieving their goals.