James Brazill Barry (Jim Barry)

Education

Although born in Dulwich (a suburb of Adelaide), Jim was brought up in Murray Bridge until 1937, where he and his brother Brian were taught by the sisters of St Joseph. In 1938 his family moved back to Adelaide and he commenced his secondary education at Christian Brothers College, Rostrevor. 

During his time there, he was considered to be a good all-round sportsman, as well as rover and forward in Brother Moggs unbeaten champion football team in 1941.

Early Career History

In 1944 Jim Barry commenced his wine career by studying wine science (Oenology) at Roseworthy Agricultural College. For almost

 a hundred years the highly respected College has been associated with viticulture and winemaking, and is credited as one of the principal reasons for the excellent quality of Australian wine. Jim did his first vintage at Stonyfell Winery in 1945 while continuing to study for his Oenology diploma.

In 1946, as a final year student, he undertook work experience at the Clarevale Cooperative. After graduating at the end of the year as the 17th qualified winemaker to study at Roseworthy, he accepted a position as Clarevale’s winemaker and chemist - the first qualified winemaker to work in the Clare Valley.