We are thrilled to learn that Josef Chromy was recently awarded Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to the community through tourism, particularly the wine and food sector, to property development, and charitable contributions. Josef is a prominent figure in Tasmania's wine industry, and has made significant contributions to the development and success of wineries in the region. 

Joe's journey began in 1950, when he escaped his war-torn Czech village and spent five months in a refugee camp before immigrating to Australia. He was supported by numerous charities in order to survive. Over the next 40 years, he used his skills as a Master Butcher and Smallgoods Maker to build his business, Blue Ribbon Meat Products, into one of Tasmania’s leading brands.

In 2007, at the age of 76, Joe launched Josef Chromy Wines, further cementing his influence in the Australian wine scene (after having owned and developed some of Tasmania’s leading wineries including Rochecombe (now Bay of Fires), Jansz, Heemskerk and Tamar Ridge). In an impressively short span of just over four years, the winery soared to prominence, accumulating an impressive collection of 14 trophies and 170 medals. This exceptional achievement firmly establishes Josef Chromy Wines as one of Tasmania's most successful wine launches in history.

Never one to forget his origins, Josef Chromy has always shared his success with the charities which once supported him, stating "When negatives arrive, as they frequently do, search for ways to turn them into positives."

Joe's passion for Tasmania and its wine industry is unwavering and reflects in the quality of wines produced at Josef Chromy Wines. The winery, located on a 60-hectare vineyard site in the picturesque Tamar Valley, produces exceptional table and sparkling wines, providing visitors with an unforgettable food and wine experience in Tasmania.

Congratulations Josef Chromy!