The tight-knit community is mourning the loss of an esteemed winemaker, whose life was tragically cut short in a house fire. Peter Fraser, aged 51, was discovered deceased in his residence on Chalk Hill Road in Clarendon, located in the Adelaide Hills. The incident occurred yesterday afternoon following reports of a fire that drew emergency responders to the scene.

Fraser, a cherished figure in the winemaking world, is survived by his wife, Tessa Hume, a barrister, along with his two children and two stepchildren. His passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew him personally and professionally.

As the winemaker and general manager of Yangarra Estate, Fraser was celebrated by his colleagues and friends. “Peter was deeply loved, respected, and admired,” stated the McLaren Vale vineyard in a heartfelt tribute. The statement further highlighted his pivotal role and influence over the past 25 years, as he spearheaded Yangarra’s success with his remarkable winemaking skills, visionary ideas, and his mentorship that inspired many.

Fraser’s legacy as a “light” and a “defining voice” in the industry will continue to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on those he mentored and the wine community at large.

“For more than 25 years, Pete was the driving force behind Yangarra and was an incredible winemaker, thought leader, mentor, and a defining voice in the industry,” the McLaren Vale vineyard said in a statement.

“All of us who had the privilege of working with him are devastated by this loss. He was deeply loved, and his legacy is profound.

“Our thoughts are with his family and with the many friends whose lives he touched.

“We ask our community to keep his loved ones in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”

Born to chicken farmers in 1974, Fraser grew up on a property near McLaren Vale before going on to study winemaking at the University of Adelaide.

He also served in the army reserves and sold bulk manure from the chicken farm.

South Australian Cattle Co. managing director Tim Burvill said he became friends with Fraser in university, where they “clicked immediately”.

“After graduation, Pete and I moved in together, and both landed jobs in the Barossa Valley, with Pete starting his winemaking career at St Hallett Winery,” he said.

“I remember we thought we’d made it in life, and celebrated by each buying a mobile phone. He was the first person I ever spoke to on one.

“From those early days, Pete’s star continued to rise.”

Fraser became the chief winemaker at Normans Wines before he was approached by the Jackson family to help establish Yangarra Estate in McLaren Vale in 2000.

The 51-year-old has been described as the driving force behind the vineyard, growing it to its acclaimed status it has today.

His attention to detail, gentle and sensitive practices and innovative techniques helped create award-winning wines.

His 2023 High Sands Grenache⁠ and 2023 Ovitelli Blanc⁠ were named in Halliday Wine Companion’s top 100 wines of 2025.

Fraser himself was awarded the title of winemaker of the year by Halliday in 2015 and most recently by Drinks Business in 2025.

The Australian wine industry has been left shaken by the news of his death and has paid tribute to him today.

“We are heartbroken. A light has gone out in our world. We will treasure the memories of all the chats, dinners, tastings and wonderful wines… rest in peace Pete, you will be missed more than our words can express,” Alkina Wines said.

“This has rocked our small wine community tragically. Pete was a driving force of change in McLaren Vale and Australia. He will be sorely missed. Thoughts and prayers with his family, colleagues and friends,” Liquid Links said.

“Vale, Pete. Heartbreaking news. One of the best people. Thoughts to Tessa and family,” Crawford River Wines said.

The house fire is being investigated, but police do not believe his death is suspicious and are preparing a report for the coroner. 

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