Interview with Dr Arthur Ray Beckwith OAM – Highly influential researcher in the field of Oenology

Abstract

Dr Beckwith graduated with Honours from Roseworthy Agricultural College in 1932 and went on to establish a long and distinguished career in Oenology. He researched wine making practices with Alan Hickinbotham and their collaboration led to findings that fundamentally changed wine making around the world with significant implications in the areas of wine microbiology, pH management and stability issues. Dr Beckwith spent many years at Penfold Wines where his research was used to control bacterial contamination and reduce spoilage to a minimum, and helped to develop the signature Grange wine. Among other achievements Dr Beckwith received an 'honoris causa' Doctorate from the University of Adelaide in 2004 and the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2008.