July 07, 2025

Ep 226: Part 3 of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Wine – Wine, Culture, and Connection: Mt Yengo’s Story of Reconciliation and Community

47 minutes

In this powerful episode, we head to Australia to meet Wayne Quillam and Ben Hansberry, the co-founders of Mt Yengo Wines—a First Nations–owned winery built on reconciliation, cultural expression, and community.

Mount Yengo is more than just a wine label: it's a movement for inclusion and truth-telling through art, ancestral storytelling, and connection to the land.

Through this episode we explore how Indigenous knowledge and values are guiding sustainable wine practices, how art and wine intersect as cultural expression, and how community and collaboration drive the brand's ethical vision.

From the symbolism behind each label to their practices with growers across South Australia and New South Wales, every bottle is rooted in purpose and tradition.

Whether you're interested in inclusive winemaking, Indigenous leadership, or simply looking to connect more deeply with the story behind your next glass of wine, this episode will stay with you.

Episode Guide (Chapters)

[01:50] – What Mt Yengo stands for: a platform for reconciliation and cultural connection.

[02:10] – Wayne shares his artistic journey and the role of ancestral wisdom in their work.

[02:36] – Wine as a medium for connection—to land and to each other.

[02:56] – How Mt Yengo began as a community-driven Indigenous brand.

[06:31] – The stories behind the label artwork and the cultural role of women.

[09:27] – Navigating initial bias: why an Indigenous wine brand faced resistance—and how they overcame it.

[11:46] – Creating an ethical, inclusive model with growers and winemakers.

[13:18] – Songlines, traditional land knowledge, and their integration into winemaking.

[15:17] – “Reconciliation in action”: exporting wine and culture globally.

[16:16] – The Adelaide Hills flagship range: partnerships, terroir, and excellence.

[17:58] – Mt Yengo Wines is showcased Wine Paris / Vinexposium,

[19:27] – Riverina wines: moving beyond bulk production toward quality.

[22:42] – The climate and winemaking challenges in Hunter Valley.

[24:38] – Semillon vs. Chardonnay: shifts in Hunter Valley grape trends.

[26:32] – Deep symbolism in the Adelaide Hills artwork: land, femininity, and the cosmos.

[29:48] – A powerful story of community celebration, culture, and joy.

[33:03] – Movement, music, and communal joy: reconnecting through culture.

[35:07] – How to respectfully engage with Aboriginal culture—starting with questions and curiosity.

[38:24] – Regenerative viticulture: how growers are learning from First Nations traditions.

[40:43] – Ben on how Mt Yengo’s influence is shifting mindsets in the wine industry.

[42:00] – Final reflections on pride, purpose, and the growing impact of their journey.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: [email protected]

📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time - cheers to you!

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By Janina Doyle

4.7

1313 ratings