Duncan's ancestors were an entrepreneurial lot, with one Francois Girard, owning the Sydney Hotel (1828) and another, Michael Hayes,
operating one of the first illegal distilleries in Australia in 1805.
His brother, Patrick was a rectification distiller in Dublin.
So you can say that distilling has been in the family for over 200 years.
Duncan grew up in Tasmania's Tamar Valley, and came to Perth in the 1990s,
eventually buying the property at Baskerville in 1998.
While working full-time as an engineer, he spent every spare moment working to establish his dream of an organic vineyard and facilities at the
Baskerville property. The cellar door opened in the year 2000. Scroll down for more.
In 2018 and 2019 Duncan became a finalist for the Australian organic farmer of the year award.
On the 17th of June 2019 Harris Organic Wines and Spirits became certified with Southern Cross certifiers, ready for the 2000 vintage.
In 2025 we became a finalist in the 7NEWS Western Australian Community Achievement Awards, namely the Pan Pacific Perth Sustainability
Award.
Harris Organic Wine and Spirits of Baskerville promotes a resilient and sustainable future.
Founded by Duncan Harris, Harris Organic Wine and Spirits is Perth’s only certified organic winery and distillery.
For over 27 years, Duncan has transformed a dry block in the Swan Valley into a thriving organic estate, producing wines and spirits through dryland viticulture and sustainable practices. Innovations include Australia’s first certified organic brandy, small-batch distillation using solar and wood-fired energy, and a closed-loop system that minimises waste and reduces environmental impact. Duncan has trained over 40 interns and volunteers. He has republished historic viticulture resources and contributed to regional
identity through the Swan Valley Winemakers Association. Congratulations Harris Organic Wine and Spirits!
