Ben and Alma Schild first moved to the Barossa Valley from Lameroo in the Murray Mallee in 1952. The first vineyard that the family purchased is located up the top of Steingarten Road, near Rowland Flat, where the original homestead is still situated.

In 1956 Ben Schild died suddenly and Ed, being the youngest of eight children and the only son to be living at home, stayed to run the family property at the age of 16.

Ed Schild’s enthusiasm for the region, its offerings and vineyards saw him steadily grow the landholdings of the Schild Family, which today encompasses over 450 acres under vine. Within this large amount of land is one small patch of 160 year old shiraz vines which produces the iconic Moorooroo Shiraz. Ed and Lorraine have four children and eight grandchildren which ensures a strong family focus within the winery today. In 1998 the Schild Estate label was established producing a total of 7 tonnes making 450 dozen and recently in the 2011 Vintage 600 Tonnes – 50,000 cases. So with that much work to do and so many family members, it sure makes for fun times in Lyndoch.

Until recently Schild Estate Wines were produced offsite, but in July 2010 Valley of Hope Winery was opened and 2011 saw the first complete vintage come through it’s doors, with Chief Winemaker Scott Hazeldine leading the charge.

Source: Schild Estate