Vignette 41: The birth of wine research in Australia

Alan Robb Hickinbotham (1898–1959) is widely regarded as the father of Australian oenology, providing a crucial contribution to the country’s wine industry. 

In the 1930s, Hickinbotham, Head of Chemistry Laboratories at Roseworthy, undertook research into winemaking under Australian conditions. This research culminated in establishing the Diploma of Oenology in 1936, a program that evolved into the globally renowned Bachelor of Oenology degree offered at the Waite Campus today. 

The Hickinbotham Roseworthy Wine Science Laboratory, built in the 1990s with the support of the Hickinbotham family, integrates wine science and grape research, facilitating education and innovation. Equipped with a range of winemaking tools, including crushers and presses, fermentation tanks, and a 600 L pot-still, the laboratory processes up to 120 tonnes of fruit annually. Significantly, 70% of Australia’s wine research and development occurs through small-scale trials at the Waite Campus, demonstrating the laboratory’s essential role in the industry.

The Hickinbotham family vintage lives on through their support of the University and its National Wine Centre, ensuring that future generations benefit from Alan Robb Hickinbotham’s vision for Australian winemaking.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Nurturing excellence. p.63