Joy by name & Joy by nature

The Coonawarra Wine Community is in deep shock following the sudden passing of one of its founding and much loved members.

Joy Bowen passed away early on Wednesday, April 3, in ICU at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide following a very short illness. She was 72.

Joy has been the cornerstone of Coonawarra’s ongoing success, since moving to the region with husband of 52 years, Doug, in 1972 and establishing Bowen Estate, a brand that has since become synonymous with the Coonawarra Wine Region.

In 1975 they made their first wine, opening Bowen Estate cellar door (a converted dairy) to the public in 1977.

The family-owned and operated business was a dream of Doug and Joy Bowen that has gradually evolved over the past 40 years and now involves their daughter Emma as chief winemaker.

Located on prime Coonawarra terra rossa soil, Bowen Estate produces a small quintessential range of classic Coonawarra wines.

Joy was an outstanding member of the community, whose passion for the region was undeniable.

She held positions on numerous committees and with Doug was a founding member of the Coonawarra Vignerons Association.

She was a notable can do person and wise well beyond her years.

Her strength was to shine the light on others, working in the background and using her intelligence and wisdom to enhance and nurture the identity of Coonawarra.

Joy’s tenacity, intelligent leadership and guidance will be a lasting legacy.

Alongside her passion for wine, was a great love and knowledge of food, being a superb cook in her own right.

Anyone lucky enough to have enjoyed one of her legendary dinner parties will attest to her depth of culinary skill and impeccable hospitality. It is no surprise that with her encouragement, son Simon has followed her passion as a renowned chef at the award-winning Pipers of Penola.

Joy will be remembered as a proud mother and grandmother, and a valued and influential member of the Coonawarra Vignerons Association and the Coonawarra Community as a whole.

She was admired by many and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Joy’s life will be celebrated Monday, April 22, at Parker Estate, Riddoch Highway, Coonawarra, at 11.30am.