The Birth and Bloom of Ampersand Estates Vineyard and Winery in Western Australia
Melissa Bell, aged 41, stumbled upon a hidden gem – a 138-acre property situated on the southwestern brink of Australia, a considerable distance south of Perth. This discovery in September 2020 marked a pivotal chapter for Bell, who had traversed continents, leaving an established role at Deloitte in London to join a quaint firm, Velrada, in Australia.
Nestled within Australia’s gastronomic heartland, the location is a lush canvas where a significant portion of the nation’s avocados flourish, and a rare variety of black truffles are unearthed. Proximity to the renowned Margaret River wine sector added allure. Bell, undaunted by the initial untamed landscape, envisioned transforming it into a realm of possibilities.
Fast forward to December 2021, Bell and her enduring ally, Corrie Scheepers, brought to life Ampersand Estates. This emerging vineyard and winery in Western Australia, infused with modern charm, became a hub for events, accommodation, and diverse indulgences. Visitors could relish the picturesque vineyard views from contemporary cottages and savor unique flavors beneath the pergola.
Delving into Bell’s past reveals a journey from modest roots. Raised in a trailer park and experiencing an itinerant childhood due to her father’s military enlistment, Bell embraced diverse cultures and landscapes. The family’s European sojourn was marked by simplicity, yet, it fortified Bell’s resolve and adventurous spirit.
Bell’s early twenties saw her immerse in Ukrainian culture as a Peace Corps volunteer, learning the intricacies of vodka production. This stint followed her academic endeavor at the London School of Economics, earning a Master’s degree in International Relations and Affairs in 2005.
Upon her Australian journey, Bell crossed paths with Scheepers. The duo, armed with shared visions, embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, founding The Terrace Initiative consulting firm. Their collective endeavors bore fruit, leading to the firm’s expansion and eventual sale in 2019.
Venturing into winemaking was a dream laced with pragmatic goals. Bell emphasized the balance between passion and profitability. The entrepreneurial journey bore its unique challenges, with the onus of success solely resting on their shoulders.
Ampersand Estates’ inception was marked by unwavering determination and a dream to craft Australia’s finest wine. The essence of success, as Bell highlighted, was assembling a dedicated team, each member aligning with the overarching vision.
Parallelly, Bell and Scheepers unveiled Rainfall Distillery, integrating sustainability by transitioning to solar power. This venture, steeped in Bell’s longstanding passion for spirits, marked the fulfillment of a decade-long aspiration. Rainfall’s creations, infused with distinctive Australian elements, found their way to international markets, showcasing their innovative single-estate gins.
Ampersand and Rainfall Distillery symbolized a tangible manifestation of dreams and complex endeavors. Bell emphasized the invaluable insights gained through hands-on experience, steering projects with unwavering commitment and investment.
Circling back to consulting, Bell and Scheepers launched Ampersand Advisory in December 2021. The boutique firm, with its foundation in sustainability, attracted clients seeking experienced consultants who were concurrently managing a thriving business.
Reflecting on her journey, Bell, with a touch of humor, dismissed the notion of early retirement. Her entrepreneurial spirit, undiminished, continued to steer her towards uncharted territories, leaving an indelible mark on Australia’s vineyards.
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