Brendan Carter on challenging Australian wine culture

I first came across Unico Zelo almost a decade ago, in a wine shop in Kansas City. The owners poured me a skin-contact white from South Australia, a wine I’d never seen before. I was immediately struck by its vibrant label, its unusual blend, and its perfectly fitting name: Esoterico. That was my first introduction to Brendan Carter and his work at Unico Zelo.

Since then, I’ve watched in awe as the brand has expanded, pivoted, adapted, and expanded again - a cycle that has become part of its DNA. What began as a cult label is now much more: an international presence, with Bottle Shock TV bringing stories, insights, and entertainment to a global audience, and a wine bar experience that is immersive, unpretentious, and undeniably fun.

At the heart of it all are Brendan and his wife, Laura, who has been alongside him since the very beginning. But Brendan isn’t one to keep the spotlight for himself. He consistently highlights the next generation of talent - Henry, Noah, Simon, and the wider Bottle Shock and Unico Zelo teams - emphasising them as an integral part of the future.

Brendan’s leadership, vision, and infectious energy have left a clear mark both in Australia and abroad since the inception of Unico Zelo in 2012. After nearing a record two-hour conversation on the Cellar Door Podcast, I can honestly say Brendan is a confident, thoughtful visionary with the track record to prove that whatever he’s doing, it’s working.

It was an absolute privilege to speak with him and hear his insights. A huge thanks to Brendan Carter for joining me.