Our history
Our Founders
Lionel Samson & Tony Smith
Though generations apart, Lionel Samson and Tony Smith are bound by a shared pioneering spirit, one through commerce and community, the other through land and legacy.
Their stories intersect through a dedication to Western Australia’s growth and innovation, a belief in its potential, and a pursuit of excellence that continues to shape Plantagenet Wines and the Great Southern region today.
The name Plantagenet carries a rich dual heritage. The royal House of Plantagenet ruled England from 1154 to 1485, and centuries later, early English settlers brought the name to the Great Southern, christening the rural shire surrounding Mount Barker after the royal line they admired. Fittingly, Plantagenet Wines’ founder, Tony Smith, can trace his own lineage to the Plantagenet royal house through his mother’s side – a connection that weaves together heritage and history in every bottle.
Lionel Samson
1799–1878
A pioneering merchant and entrepreneur, Lionel Samson arrived in Fremantle in 1829 and quickly became one of Western Australia’s most respected early settlers.
He founded Lionel Samson & Son, the state’s oldest continuing family business, and secured WA's first-ever liquor license. His enterprising nature and belief in the region’s potential would go on to influence generations, a legacy that continues through Plantagenet Wines today.
In 1992 Lionel Samson & Son purchased a one-third share in Plantagenet Wines, before going on to fully acquire the business in 2000.
Tony Smith
Plantagenet Founder, 1968
Nearly 140 years later, Tony Smith channelled that same pioneering spirit when he planted the first vines in Mount Barker, establishing Plantagenet Wines in 1968 with two other partners.
A visionary farmer with a deep connection to the land, Tony saw what few others did: that the Great Southern’s cool climate could produce wines of world-class calibre. His commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity helped define the region’s winemaking identity and laid the groundwork for the excellence that Plantagenet embodies today.
The Icon Collection
Single-vineyard. Exceptional vintages. Limited release.
The pinnacle of our portfolio, the Icon wines honour two figures central to the Plantagenet story: founder Tony Smith, and Tom Wisdom's ancestor Lionel Samson, who began WA’s oldest family business in 1829.
Crafted only in outstanding vintages, these wines come from the finest blocks within our oldest vineyards and are designed for long-term cellaring and celebration.
1968
Tony Smith planted trial vineyards of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon on his Bouverie property in Denbarker.
1971
Further plantings, including Riesling, carried out in the Wyjup vineyard.
1974
Plantagenet Wines produced it’s first vintage and the iconic Three Lions brand was registered.
1975
An apple packing shed in Mount Barker was purchased and converted into the region’s first winery and cellar door.
1976
Plantagenet Shiraz and Cabernet win first Gold Medals at Australian wine shows.
1979
Further plantings, including Riesling, carried out in the Wyjup vineyard.
1992
Lionel Samson & Son purchased a one-third share in Plantagenet Wines.
1999
Our fourth vineyard Rocky Horror was established.
2000
Plantagenet Wines was fully purchased by Lionel Samson and Son, the oldest family business in WA and second oldest in Australia having been established in 1829.
2019
The Wyjup Collection was first released.
2021
Tom and Jo Wisdom Become the new owners of Plantagenet Wines. Mike Garland becomes the 9th Plantagenet Winemaker.