General News
21 August, 2026
A new chapter for Dogrock
HIGH above Crowlands sits a place shaped as much by its landscape as by the people who have cared for it. Surrounded by rocky ridges, native bushland and rows of vines, Dogrock Winery is a vineyard with a character all of its own.
Established in 1998 by Allen and Andrea Hart, Dogrock was never intended to be an ordinary winery. From the beginning, it was built around a remarkable site, thoughtfully selected grape varieties and a philosophy that placed quality, balance and a genuine sense of place above convention.
Independent and off-grid, Dogrock has quietly forged its own path over the years, producing distinctive wines while earning recognition not only for the quality of those wines, but also for its commitment to sustainability.
Now, after more than two decades under the care of Allen and Andrea, Dogrock is entering a new chapter.
New owners Brett Morcomb and Glen Whitefield have taken the reins, bringing with them a deep appreciation for what has already been created at Crowlands.
For Brett and Glen, the opportunity was never about starting again.
“We're not here to reinvent Dogrock,” is the philosophy behind the transition. Instead, their ambition is to protect the qualities that have made the property special, build carefully on the foundations laid by Allen and Andrea, and take the vineyard, wines and Dogrock story confidently into the future.
It is a change of ownership, but not a change of heart.
The rugged landscape remains. The vines remain. The connection to the land remains. And so does the belief that great wine begins with an understanding of place.
For the new custodians of Dogrock, that sense of place is central to everything they hope to do.
There is a quiet responsibility that comes with taking over a property with such a strong identity. Dogrock is not simply a vineyard or winery; it is the result of decades of work, experimentation, care and an enduring commitment to doing things differently.
Brett and Glen understand that their role is not to erase that history, but to become part of it.
Glen said his love for Dogrock started during a visit about five years ago.
“I actually visited here five years ago when I had nearly finished my Batchelor of Agriculture and Technology through Melbourne Polytech and we came up here for one evaluation subject and that’s where I first met Allen at Dogrock and tested some of the wines.
“Back then this was what I sort of envisaged my journey into the wine industry would look like,” Glen said.
“We’re going to continue with what Andrea and Allen started which is sustainable viticulture and sustainable wine making processes and keep the Dogrock branding out there.”
Brett said it was a real thrill taking on such an iconic local business.
“Allen and Andrea have made incredible wine over the years and it’s a real privilege to have that,” Brett said.
Glen and Brett’s vision is one of evolution rather than revolution—respecting the vineyard’s established character while exploring the opportunities that lie ahead.
As Dogrock moves forward, visitors can expect the same distinctive landscape, the same independent spirit and the same focus on wines that express their origins, while a new generation of custodians adds its own chapter to the story.
The people looking after Dogrock may have changed.
The place has not, and perhaps that is the most important thing of all.