Vanguardist Wines
Barossa Valley, Australia
Brand Overview
Vanguardist began with humble origins, born from shared ideals, laughter, and long nights around a table with friends. Its founder, Michael J. Corbett, turned that inspiration into a lifelong pursuit of international wine excellence.
The first Vanguardist release appeared in the Hunter Valley, 2014, featuring two meticulously crafted single-vineyard expressions from South Australia. Today, the brand has expanded, with a focus on showcasing the best varietals, soils, and sub-regions across the country. Vanguardist wines are now highly regarded by independent bottle stores, bars, and sommeliers, while La Petite Vanguard reflects Michael’s experimental, approachable side.
In 2021, Michael and his partner Claire established their base in the Barossa Valley, hand-bottling and labeling all wines. Longtime collaborators Ali and Edouard help distribute Vanguardist wines across Europe, extending the brand’s influence internationally.
Winemaker – Michael J. Corbett
Michael is a first-generation vigneron with over 30 vintages across 13 regions and four countries. Known for his relentless pursuit of perfection, he doesn’t just make wine—he “inhabits it.” Michael’s talent lies in blending modern dynamism with traditional styles, creating wines that are both compelling and elegant.
"The Vanguardist range embodies our philosophy: to go beyond the bounds of winemaking, to inspire curiosity and excitement, to deliver the highest quality without compromising the character of the land. Our ultimate dedication to viticulture and winemaking is captured in our vision in each bottle."
— Michael J. Corbett