Jacob and Gina Stein officially take ownership of iconic Mudgee winery, continuing 49 years of family legacy.
One of Australia’s most respected Riesling producers, Robert Stein Wines, has announced a major milestone with the official transfer of ownership to third-generation custodians Jacob and Gina Stein. The couple, who have been instrumental in the business for over 17 years, now take full ownership of the winery, vineyard, and farm, signalling a new chapter in the story of this renowned Mudgee winegrower.
Established in 1976 by Robert ‘Bob’ Stein, the winery is one of New South Wales’ few multi-generational, family-owned wine businesses. Upon Bob’s retirement, his son Andrew assumed the role of General Manager. Andrew is now stepping down and after 17 years involvement, Jacob and Gina have officially purchased and taken ownership of the family company.
Located nine kilometres north of Mudgee, the property spans 202 hectares and includes a 20-hectare vineyard featuring nine grape varieties, a working farm with livestock and crops, a state-of-the-art winery, cellar door, restaurant, and the original family homestead.
“Generational succession in a family winery is never without complexity. It’s a challenging time for the industry, and our family, including my siblings, wanted to ensure the legacy of our father and grandparents is protected. We are proud of our achievements and are looking forward to a bright future,” says Jacob Stein. “We’ve found a path forward that strengthens our connection to the Stein heritage and honours the traditions established by previous generations over our 187 years in Australia.”
Jacob, who took on the winemaking and winery operations in 2009 at just 25 years old, brings a wealth of experience from leading wine regions in Australia and Europe. His six-year international experience, particularly in Germany’s Rheinhessen and Rheingau regions, helped shaped his dedication to Riesling, a variety that has become the hallmark of Robert Stein Wines.
Under Jacob’s leadership, Robert Stein Wines has achieved unprecedented acclaim, including three Best Riesling Trophies in the last five years at the Sydney Royal Wine Show and over 80 trophies and 100 gold medals across national and international competitions. Most recently, the winery secured the 2024 Trophy for Best Riesling at the NSW Wine Awards.
In recent years, the winery has tripled its production, with growth driven by a focus on integrity, sustainability and a regenerative approach to farming. Through hard work and shared vision, Jacob and Gina have fostered a culture grounded in family values, honesty, and authenticity.
For more information, samples or images please visit www.robertstein.com.au or contact:
- David Cumming at Define Wine Marketing & Communications: 0414 736 342 or david@definewine.com.au
- Jacob Stein at Robert Stein Wines: 02 6373 3991 or jacob@robertstein.com.au
Robert Stein Wines can trace their winemaking history back to 1838, when the famous Macarthur family brought Johann Stein to Australia with the country’s first cuttings of Rhine Riesling. These vines flourished at Camden Park under Johann’s careful watch. 138 years later, in 1976, Robert ‘Bob’ Stein purchased 75 acres in Mudgee and renewed the Stein passion for viticulture. Third generation Jacob Stein took over the winemaking in 2009. In 2011 he was named ‘International Up and Coming Riesling Winemaker’ at the Canberra International Riesling Challenge and in 2012 Gourmet Traveller Young Winemaker of the Year.