Bangkok's hospitality and wine circles gathered at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok Townhall Sukhumvit for the Thai debut of Brockenchack Wines, a family-owned Eden Valley producer. The invitation-only tasting, hosted by Khun Poonlap Chantavongviriya, founder of Chante Wine and Beverage, marked the fourth event in a week-long roadshow across Thailand.
The evening was less a conventional product launch than a family affair. Brockenchack was founded by Trevor and Marilyn Harch, who named the winery after their four grandchildren: Brontë, Mackenzie, Charli and Jack. Darren Naylor, representing the next generation, attended with his son Mack, underscoring the continuity of the family business. Trevor Harch, unable to travel, was toasted from Bangkok with a rendition of “Happy Birthday” on his 80th birthday—a gesture that set the tone for a launch built on personal connection.
Wine highlights from the tasting
The non-vintage Great Scott Sparkling Shiraz emerged as the surprise standout. Medium-bodied with ripe plum, chocolate, mocha, blackcurrant, vanilla and spice, it finishes dry and lingering—a celebratory wine with enough character to anchor the range. Among the still wines, the Zip Line Shiraz, a single-vineyard Eden Valley expression, impressed with its balance of old-vine depth and youthful freshness, offering red and black fruit, subtle florals and a finely structured finish.
Khun Poonlap, who shared the evening with his own family, emphasized the human element. “It is an honour to help introduce Brockenchack Wines in Thailand,” he said. “I was impressed by the craftsmanship in every bottle and the warmth of the family behind the winery. Their passion makes the wines feel deeply authentic.” He added, “We wanted guests to know the people behind the brand and put faces to the names. That human-to-human connection, creating experiences and sharing stories, can be lost among faceless corporate brands.”
The launch reflects a broader trend in Thailand’s premium beverage market, where boutique producers are gaining traction through storytelling and experiential events. Chante Wine and Beverage, the exclusive importer and distributor, plans to leverage its partnerships with hotels and restaurants to introduce Brockenchack to a wider audience. The winery’s portfolio, shaped by historic vines and family heritage, aligns with the growing demand for authentic, provenance-driven products.
For travel and hospitality professionals, the event highlights the role of wine tourism and premium F&B in enhancing guest experiences. As Thailand continues to attract international visitors—European summer searches for Thailand have surged—hotels and restaurants are increasingly curating unique beverage programs. Brockenchack’s entry offers a new option for operators seeking distinctive Australian wines with a compelling narrative.
The Bangkok event also underscores the importance of family-owned brands in the luxury segment. With its single-vineyard focus and personal story, Brockenchack joins a growing list of boutique wineries making inroads in Asia. Chante Wine and Beverage’s approach—hosting intimate tastings and building relationships—mirrors successful strategies seen in other markets, such as immersive fam trips for travel agents.
As the roadshow concluded, the most memorable moments were quiet ones: a family gathered around its wines, another helping bring them to market, and a new generation finding its place in the story. For Thailand’s wine community, Brockenchack offers more than just premium bottles—it brings a narrative that resonates with today’s discerning consumers.
About Brockenchack Wines: A family-owned, single-vineyard winery in Eden Valley, South Australia, founded by Trevor and Marilyn Harch and named for their grandchildren. About Chante Wine and Beverage: Exclusive importer and distributor of Brockenchack Wines in Thailand, specializing in personal storytelling and hosted tastings. About OK Business Solutions: A Bangkok-based hospitality advisory firm supporting brand positioning and market representation.
