Meet Brenden
My name is Brenden (or Brenno, as many know me). I spent nearly 20 years as a carpenter by day, and a Wine Animal by night—or any other waking moment I could find. Recently, I took the leap to focus on wine full-time, a calculated yet thrilling risk. This transition has been one of the scariest yet most rewarding decisions of my life. Building a brand, gaining respect, and constantly learning all take time, but I’m committed to this journey. My wine adventure began at 30, quickly becoming a passion that grew into a viable business. As I often say, from passion comes great opportunity.
Join the Jungle Club
I come from what many would call a typical Aussie family. My sister and I grew up in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, supported by hardworking parents. My mum, a dressmaker turned entrepreneur, is now one of Australia’s leading bridal gown retailers. My dad, a corporate business development manager, helped companies grow and expand into new markets. They both taught me invaluable lessons about business, and I see myself learning from their successes and challenges as I grow Wine Animal from a side project into a family-supporting venture.
After school, I dabbled in various jobs and even tried university before finding my footing in carpentry, which brought structure to my life. This structure was crucial, as my younger years were complicated by a hidden struggle with gambling addiction. Overcoming that addiction taught me the strength of daily choice and self-discipline, which I now channel into my passion for wine. My entry into wine initially concerned my loved ones, who feared one vice might replace another. But wine became much more than a distraction—it was a calling and an avenue for creativity, connection, and personal growth.
Join the Jungle Club
My amazing wife and I have traveled widely, experiencing different cultures, meeting incredible people, and, finally, settling in the beautiful Yarra Valley, where we’re raising our three wonderful children. Although the path has been challenging at times, we’re now building our lives in a community we love, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful landscapes.
Wine became a way to express my true self, a purposeful outlet that filled the void left by addiction. It began with an import business, bringing in Hampton Water Rosé by Gerard Bertrand and Jon Bon Jovi—a fantastic introduction to the wine world. When larger companies moved in, I had to pivot, transitioning into retail during the global pandemic to keep my passion alive.
Wine Animal emerged from my desire to connect people with great wine and with each other, with a focus on showcasing the incredible Yarra Valley. Wine Animal is more than a business; it’s an extension of me—my style, personality, and vision. My aim is to make wine approachable and enjoyable, welcoming everyone from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts into the community. At the end of the day, wine is simply fermented grape juice, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family. I envision a new generation of wine lovers exploring and learning, and if I can play a part in that, I’m here for it. I’m always open to ideas, partnerships, and good conversation—small talk often leads to big insights.
Join the Jungle Club
My goals for Wine Animal are to showcase the Yarra Valley to tourists, locals, and wine enthusiasts through immersive tours and wine sales. If you're visiting the Yarra Valley, I can create tailored itineraries, from introductory to luxury experiences, highlighting hidden gems that capture the region’s essence. I’m constantly working to provide unique opportunities—whether that’s exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, tastings of rare wines, or local experiences not typically available to the public.
I invite you to join me on this journey. I’ll strive to keep things fun, informative, and authentic to who I am. Feel free to reach out, suggest content or wines to try, and share in the joy of wine. After all, it’s all about making connections and celebrating this wonderful craft with as many people as possible.