Mr Chatto will oversee the portfolios of Kreglinger Wine Estates, which includes Tasmanian brands Ninth Island, Pipers Brook and Kreglinger Vintage Sparkling.

He also holds the same position for McWilliam’s Wines Group, which he conducts from his Tasmanian base.

Tasmania has always been important to Mr Chatto, along with pinot noir, so he considers it makes sense to combine his two passions.

“Pinot is my wine passion, it’s what I have chosen to specialise in, and what better place than Tasmania,” Mr Chatto said.

“When I first came to make wine in Tasmania in 1998, Pipers Brook was the undisputed leader for innovation and quality,” he said.

The industry has changed in the 19 years since, with new producers entering – and innovating – the marketplace.

“It’s such a great dynamic today. Tasmanian wine needs its best known wine brands to be a national and international success. My goal at Pipers Brook is just that,” Mr Chatto said.

In these dual roles Mr Chatto will provide stylistic direction, blending and strategic guidance to develop and mentor winemakers from both companies to produce wines with regional quality and integrity.

“The modern thinking and flexibility from both Kreglinger and McWilliam’s in allowing me to do what I do best is a testament to both company’s commitment to great Australian wine,” Mr Chatto said.

Kreglinger Wine Estates chief executive John Hosken said Mr Chatto’s appointment signalled a new era.

“Jim both recognises and complements with his ability, experience and enthusiasm,” Mr Hosken said.