Meet Director
Andrew La Nauze.
From vineyards to viewings, Andy’s journey has taken him from 21 vintages as a winemaker at Yalumba to co-leading Marx Real Estate in the heart of the Barossa. With deep local roots, a passion for rural living, and a specialist edge in vineyard and lifestyle property sales, Andy brings a unique perspective to the world of real estate.
From Vines to Values: Andy’s Journey from Winemaker to Real Estate Specialist
Can you tell us a bit about your background in the wine industry?
I grew up in Nuriootpa, and you could say wine soaked into me osmotically—life among the vineyards just had a way of getting under your skin. Like many of my peers, I couldn’t wait to leave school and head to Adelaide in search of something more exciting. I initially studied radiography—mostly because it sounded interesting, though I had little idea what it actually involved. After completing my degree and working for a year, I realised my true passion lay in wine, and more specifically, in the Barossa. I returned to study winemaking at the University of Adelaide, and not long after, found myself back in the Barossa working with Australia’s oldest family-owned winemaker, Yalumba. I had the privilege of working with the Hill-Smith family for 21 vintages, crafting wine across South Australia’s finest regions.
What made you decide to get into real estate?
My wife Sara has had a long and successful career in real estate here in the Barossa. In 2015, we launched Marx Real Estate together. For many years I worked behind the scenes as a director while continuing my full-time role as a winemaker at Yalumba. As the business grew, it became clear that it needed more hands-on support to continue thriving—so I made the leap and joined full time. It’s been a rewarding transition and an exciting new chapter for us both.
How do you think your wine industry experience helps you in this new role, particularly with vineyard and rural property sales?
Winemaking and real estate may seem worlds apart, but they share a surprising number of transferable skills—problem solving, managing deadlines, working under pressure, communication, and a strong focus on customer service. My experience in winemaking and viticulture gives me a specialist edge when it comes to marketing and selling vineyard and rural properties. I speak the language of the industry and understand the nuances of viticultural assets, which allows me to connect meaningfully with clients in this niche market.
What do you love most about living and working in the Barossa?
There’s so much to love. It’s a true community—you’re always bumping into familiar faces. The region has a rural charm, yet we’re just an hour from Adelaide. It’s a fantastic place to raise a family, with affordable housing, excellent schools, plenty of sports and outdoor activities, and a strong aged care network. Then there’s the wine, the food, the rolling vineyards, and the proximity to the Murray River or the coast—what more could you want?
What kind of properties are you most passionate about selling?
I’m drawn to properties that have clearly been loved and well cared for—often over many years. There’s something special about helping a vendor transition their home to its next custodian, knowing it holds so many memories and meaning.
How would you describe your approach when working with buyers and sellers?
I’ve learned a great deal from watching Sara work so effectively with both vendors and buyers over the years. I aim to mirror her balanced, empathetic, and outcome-focused approach—always striving to understand what people need and how we can help them achieve it.
Do you have any personal interests or fun facts about yourself?
I love playing guitar—though I don’t get to play as much as I’d like these days. Music’s always been a quiet passion of mine outside of wine and now, real estate.
Andy La Nauze.
Looking to buy or sell in the Barossa?
Andy is just a call or email away. With expert knowledge in vineyard and lifestyle properties, he’s here to guide you every step of the way.