Lo-fi & Local

At Vin Merchants, we embrace the art of lo-fi winemaking—minimal intervention with maximum expression. Based in Melbourne, Australia, we are a proudly independent winemaking and distribution business founded by Nicole and Ben Carwyn, who bring over 30 years of experience in the wine industry.

two smiling individuals standing amongst rows of lush green grapevines in a vineyard.

Cheers to great wine, good people, and keeping it local.

A close-up shot captures a pair of hands gently cradling a cluster of dark blue-purple grapes on a vine.

Our philosophy is simple: great wine starts in the vineyard and thrives with minimal interference. We champion small-batch, hand-crafted wines that highlight the character of the land, the fruit, and the people who cultivate them.

With decades of knowledge and strong relationships across the wine industry, we work closely with like-minded producers, growers, and venues to bring thoughtful, terroir-driven wines to those who appreciate craftsmanship and locality. Whether you're a dedicated wine lover, a hospitality professional, or just curious to explore honest and expressive wines, Vin Merchants is here to share some delicious drops with you.

Meet the Team

  • A photo of Ben Carwyn wearing a hat and tasting some wine among the vineyards

    BEN CARWYN, The Chief

    Ben Carwyn is a seasoned winemaker, viticulturist, and founder of Vin Merchants, with more than 20 years of experience spanning every facet of the Australian wine industry—from vineyard management and production to export strategy and brand building. A former associate judge at the Melbourne Wine Awards, Ben’s deep understanding of site, soil, and sustainability has shaped a distinctive winemaking philosophy rooted in transparency and regional identity.

  • TOBY STEPHENS, Head of Sales

    Toby Stephens, our Head of Sales at Vin Merchants, has been immersed in winemaking since 2002, with a diverse career spanning Margaret River to Corsica. An experienced wine show judge and well-known wine geek around Victoria, Toby brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our industry. If you’d like to chat wine or arrange a tasting – please give him a shout.

  • Smiling man with blond hair wearing a dark plaid shirt, sitting at a wooden table in a cozy, dimly lit restaurant.

    TOM BAXTER, Regional Sales Manager

    Tom is a seasoned wine and hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience working alongside winemakers and delivering exceptional guest experiences at premium venues across Australia and the UK. Backed by WSET certifications and hands-on vintage experience, he brings a deep understanding of the wine industry, strong leadership skills, and an enduring passion for all aspects of wine—from vineyard to glass. If you’d like to chat wine or arrange a tasting – please give him a shout.

  • NICOLE CARWYN, CA, GAICD

    Nicole has over 20 years’ experience across a broad range of industries as both a CFO and Director. She is renowned for both her attention-to-detail and strategic thinking – and switches seamlessly from the nitty gritty to operating at Board level to influence and advise on commercial decisions to drive business strategy. She has a track record of successfully implementing and managing change while balancing her forward-thinking style with a considered approach to risk.