John and Genevieve Ashwell have had a passion for wine for many years – a passion that has included trips to all Australian winemaking areas as well many visits to other major wine producing nations.

On these adventures the dream of establishing a family-run vineyard began to take shape and in 1990 they purchased a 20 hectare property in the Granite Belt in south-eastern Queensland, Australia.  

The property lies in a valley with mountains and hills to the west and east. 

Early in the vineyard’s establishment it was mentioned to Genevieve that they have a good view of Mount StIrling, to which she replied, “That’s not a mountain, it’s just a hill.” 

The name ‘Jester Hill’ was born. (Mt. StIrling is actually close to 800 meters, but why let the facts get in the way of a great story!)

John holds a degree in medicine and has completed a wine-making course, while Genevieve has a background in nursing and has done a marketing and wine management course. 

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