Clarendon, SA — November 27, 2025: The South Australian wine industry is in shock following the sudden death of Peter Fraser, 51, an award-winning winemaker and general manager of Yangarra Estate, who was found dead in a house fire at his Chalk Hill Road home in Clarendon, Adelaide Hills. Fraser leaves behind his wife, barrister Tessa Hume, two children, and two step-children.
Colleagues and friends have remembered Fraser as “deeply loved” and a “light” in the wine community, praising his mentorship, passion, and transformative impact on the Australian wine industry.
What Happened
Emergency services were called to Fraser’s residence in Clarendon on the afternoon of November 26, 2025, after reports of a house fire. Firefighters discovered Fraser’s body inside the property.
Police have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report is being prepared for the coroner. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Adelaide Hills and wider wine community, where Fraser was widely regarded as a pioneering and influential figure.
Who Was Peter Fraser?
Born in 1974 to chicken farmers near McLaren Vale, South Australia, Peter Fraser grew up with a deep connection to the land. He studied winemaking at the University of Adelaide and also served in the army reserves while assisting in the family farm.
Fraser began his winemaking career at St Hallett Winery in the Barossa Valley before becoming chief winemaker at Normans Wines. In 2000, he was recruited by the Jackson family to help establish Yangarra Estate, a vineyard that would go on to become internationally acclaimed.
Friends describe Fraser as a kind, thoughtful, and innovative individual whose warmth and mentorship touched everyone around him.
Career and Legacy
Fraser’s contributions to the wine industry were profound. Known for his attention to detail, gentle vineyard practices, and innovative winemaking techniques, he helped create award-winning wines that earned critical acclaim.
Notable achievements include:
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Halliday Wine Companion Top 100 Wines of 2025 for 2023 High Sands Grenache and 2023 Ovitelli Blanc.
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Named Winemaker of the Year by Halliday in 2015 and by Drinks Business in 2025.
For more than 25 years, Fraser was a defining voice in the Australian wine industry, inspiring colleagues and mentoring emerging winemakers. His leadership at Yangarra Estate helped elevate the vineyard to its renowned status, making a lasting mark on McLaren Vale and beyond.
Public and Industry Reactions
The news of Fraser’s death has elicited heartfelt tributes from the wine community:
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Alkina Wines: “We are heartbroken. A light has gone out in our world. Rest in peace Pete, you will be missed more than our words can express.”
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Liquid Links: “Pete was a driving force of change in McLaren Vale and Australia. He will be sorely missed.”
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Crawford River Wines: “Vale, Pete. One of the best people. Thoughts to Tessa and family.”
Friends and colleagues recall Fraser’s humor, generosity, and his ability to foster meaningful relationships both personally and professionally. The Australian wine industry remembers him not only for his extraordinary talent but also for his warmth, mentorship, and unwavering dedication.
Official Statements and Next Steps
The Yangarra Estate released a statement highlighting Fraser’s legacy:
“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. 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.”
Authorities continue to investigate the house fire, and a coroner’s report is expected to provide further details. In the meantime, the wine community continues to honor Fraser’s memory and support his family during this difficult time.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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