Donnybrook winery toasts innovation

A family-owned Donnybrook winery has survived the global pandemic and put their success down to a supportive customer base.

Barrecas Wines, owned by Filippo and Kelly Barreca, prides itself on customer service.

The Barreca family, who established their 40ha winery in 1994, has enjoyed success at various Geographe wine shows, winning multiple awards including best red wine and best shiraz.

But when the pandemic hit and restrictions got tighter, the owners were forced to find ways to keep the business afloat.

“It was a case of, right, we need to have an open space where people can’t touch each other, how can we provide our service to customers by adhering to that,” Mr Barreca said.

“I came up with the idea of a drive-through service, I even had a ‘honk your horn for service’ sign.

“Customers drove in and got the feel of the vineyard.

“We even opened the doors to the winery so they could see into the making of the wine and the equipment we use and a lot of the feedback we got was how authentic it was.

Mr Barreca said by offering cellar door sales to customers, it gave those who could a purpose to go for a drive.

“We still got to greet our regular and new customers and have that one-on-one with them while social distancing,” he said. “It was never about selling, of course that is important, but it was about keeping in touch with people and we are so thankful for all of our customers who have been patient and considerate.

“Without them I think this would have been very difficult.”

Mrs Barreca also offered a free delivery service throughout the South West.

“It started off being twice a week but I’m delivering wines up to four times a week now,” she said.

“We are so grateful for the support we have received from the community, it has got us through the pandemic and we just love seeing our customers, even if it is through a car window.”