Meet the Maker

Winemaker, problem solver, trusted guide.

With over 30 years of experience across Australia and New Zealand, Will Shields brings calm confidence and technical depth to the complex world of wine production.

Will Shields
Black and white image of winemaker Will Shields rolling barrel in Sevenhill Cellars

Beyond the Brand

Will’s journey started in the Hunter Valley, where his family owned Oakvale Vines. From there, he trained at Roseworthy College, then cut his teeth in Western Australia, earning more than 50 accolades during his time at Vasse Felix and Clairault.

After several vintages in New Zealand leading production at Morton Estate, Will returned to Australia in 2016 to head up winemaking at Kirrihill Wines in the Clare Valley. In 2019, he joined the historic Sevenhill Cellars—Australia's oldest Jesuit winery—ushering in a new era of innovation while respecting its 170-year legacy. His modern, fruit-focused approach helped transform the portfolio, with the 2021 Open Range Grenache taking out the prestigious George Mackey Memorial Trophy at the 2023 Royal Sydney Wine Show.

Will's winemaking experience has covered an extensive range of wine styles and production techniques, from bulk and bottled wine supply contracts with some of Australia and New Zealand's most prominent wine companies, sparkling wine production (Méthode Champenoise and Charmat), premium and super premium table wines, and fortified wine styles.

Will's philosophy has remained the same throughout: knowing the importance of the vineyard and its fruit and how that quality will influence the wine, followed by tailored winemaking to achieve the desired result. His style is balanced and elegant, guided by intuition, restraint, and a deep understanding of what makes a great wine great.

Black and white image of winemaker Will shields carrying a hose in the winery cellar.
Starboard Wine hand drawn glasses illustration

Why Starboard Wine

  • Black and white image of wine bottles lying down stacked next to each other.

    Clarity, not complexity

    We cut through the noise to help you find the path forward. Whether it’s production planning, compliance, or bottling and logistics, you’ll get straight answers and practical advice.

  • Coloured image inside a barrel room at a winery. Several bottles of wine and glasses sitting on a table with a white table cloth.

    Balanced Advice

    We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. We look at your goals, resources, and timing to offer practical advice grounded in real-world experience.

  • Moody dark image of a stainless steel wine tank.

    Industry Insight

    With over 30 years in winemaking across Australia and New Zealand, Starboard Wine brings deep knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. From vineyard to bottle, we bring context to every project.

  • Moody image of a wine glass on a wooden table with a hand holding the stem.

    Calm Confidence

    Steady guidance backed by experience. Whether you need a quick answer or a long-term plan, you’ll get thoughtful support and clear direction.

Our Values

Respect for the fruit

The fruit always comes first. We work with a soft hand to honour the land, the variety, and the story of the site. Whether it’s century-old vines or a new planting, our job is to let the vineyard speak. We believe great wine isn’t created in the winery. It’s revealed by thoughtful handling.

Integrity

We lead with honesty, not ego. Our clients trust us because we tell it like it is. Every decision is grounded in experience, never inflated by sales talk. Whether it’s sourcing, production, or packaging, we offer advice that prioritises quality.

Clarity

We believe clarity builds confidence. Winemaking can be complex, but your support shouldn’t be. We explain things in plain language so you feel informed, equipped and in control.

Collaboration

We’re not here to take over. We’re here to work with you. Every project is a partnership. We respect your goals and your vision. Our role is to bring technical skill and steady guidance so we can create something great together.

Every great wine begins with a single decision.
Get in touch and take the first step toward better, smarter winemaking.