ELKA PARSONS
Owner I Director I Winemaker
Growing up on an idyllic hobby farm in Eden Valley, Elka’s interest in wine started at a very early age. In fact, while there is not photographic evidence, it is widely believed among her friends and family that she was born with a glass of red in hand!
Some of Elka’s favourite childhood memories include savouring a sip of wine with her parents at the dinner table, usually a full-bodied Barossa Valley Shiraz – her dads’ favourite! With the family cellar not always under lock and key, as she grew up, Elka’s sampling, both authorised, and otherwise, continued – and grew into a passion for great wine that rivals most.
After many years in the airline industry, in spite of her love of travel and adventure, she had the sense that something was missing. It only took a gentle nudge and a fortuitous win at the track to literally turn her passion for wine into fruition. After a weekend at the races in Melbourne, with a small win in hand, Elka returned to the Barossa with ‘lady luck’ on her side. She sourced the most spectacular Riesling fruit, and through skill and determination created their flagship - Elk Wines Eden Valley Riesling – and thus Elk Wines was born!
Recognising that providing something unique in a highly competitive industry requires ongoing learning and exploration, Elka combines her love of travel and learning by continuing to explore vineyards across the world and studying viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide.
As a Barossa local, Elka whole heartedly endorses local suppliers and producers in every aspect of Elk Wines. She is driven by a commitment to her community, representing its exceptional produce to create truly beautiful wines.