Our People
Senior Winemaker
Tim Dexter
For Tim, growing up surrounded by vines on the Mornington Peninsula inevitably led to gainful employment in the vineyard at an early age. After graduating from Environmental Studies, Tim embarked on a globetrotting adventure, working in renowned wine regions such as the Napa Valley, Margaret River, and Oregon, as well as returning to his roots on the Mornington Peninsula. These experiences solidified his devotion to the world of wine, infecting him with an insatiable "wine bug". Seeking to enhance his expertise, Tim pursued postgraduate studies in Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide. Armed with formal qualifications, he continued to broaden his horizons with vintage work in Burgundy and the Adelaide Hills. In 2023, Tim joined the Oakridge team as Senior Winemaker.
Senior Viticulturist
Steve Faulkner
Steve Faulkner obtained a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of Melbourne, Dookie College in 2005. Over his career, Steve has completed 20 vintages across four wine regions. His experience spans both cool and warm climates, giving him an in-depth understanding of vineyard management that is highly valuable as the industry navigates climate change.
His expertise and dedication have earned him significant industry recognition; Steve was named the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO) Viticulturist of the Year in 2025 and was a nominee for the Halliday Wine Companion Viticulturist of the Year in 2024. He is also passionate about giving back to the industry, serving as a mentor in the Wine Communicators Australia Mentor program.
For over a decade, Steve has championed biological farming and alternative viticulture, utilizing compost teas, estate-made compost, soft spray programs, and chemical reduction. He firmly believes that "it's all about the dirt"—increasing biological life within the soil is the ultimate foundation for growing great wine grapes. Absolute attention to detail, continuous refinement of practices, and a relentless drive are what keep Steve and his team consistently striving for excellence.
Winemaker
Victoria Schwarz
Victoria was born and raised in the Clare Valley, and brings with her a plethora of experience, drawing inspiration from her family’s background in managing vineyards and producing wine.
Victoria completed vintages in the Clare Valley, Napa Valley and NZ before graduating from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology in 2019.
Victoria most recently worked as assistant winemaker at Pikes Wines.



