John Hordern was inducted as a 2026 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend, recognised for his lifelong contribution to the Upper Hunter wine industry as a grape grower, winemaker and business leader.

Raised in the Upper Hunter, John’s connection to wine began when his father planted Semillon and Shiraz on the family property near Denman in 1968. Following studies at Roseworthy Agricultural College, John established Horseshoe Vineyard as a premium Hunter Valley wine label and built extensive experience through contract winemaking and vineyard operations. In 2000, he helped establish Hunter Wine Services in Muswellbrook. John has also held leadership roles including President of the Upper Hunter Winemakers Association and contributed to regional advisory committees supporting the wine industry.