Where do we start……Chef Joe affectionally as he is known, is referred to as one of the original great chefs of South Australia that has created and introduced original iconic dishes like Risotto Bolognese, Filet Mignon, Carpet Bag Steak and Thermidor Steak.

From the earliest beginnings of the famous ‘Vittorios Restaurant’ in Hindley Street, Adelaide – in the early 1960’s, the first to have live music and late night trading approved by the famous Sir Don Dunstan. Then with his brother Vittorio De Ieso, continued his love and adventure of hospitality in South Australia setting up further iconic restaurants such as the Drumminor Restaurant, Stonyfell Winery and the Hindley Pasta Palace (for pasta just like mama used to make!) to name a few.

Chef Joe has been awarded many State and National awards for his culinary art and achievements. But equally as important, his apprenticeships have included the likes of Andrew Fielke (most revered Australiana chef), Mark McNamara (5 star cuisine, Eliza in the Barossa Valley) and Maggie Bears (perfecting her art in true European pate making). Under auspcie, and for the contribution to the hospitality world in South Australia, the De Ieso family were the first inductees to the Hall of Fame for their contribution.

Joe and familigia were also specialists in major catering under the bracket of ‘Classic Caterers’, serving for the likes of John Howard and for the famous bicentennial celebration Opera in the Outback, in 1988.

This is just a short snippet of the famous Chef Joe, who today is retired but helping at his eldest’s son’s boutique working winery / museum, Carmine’s Wines, preparing light lunches for the Wednesday work crew, in order to keep his hand in culinary experience. Some people are even lucky enough to be invited as guests to enjoy some vino and famous Chef Joes nibbly creations and hear him play on his squeezebox.

In honour of Chef Joe’s birthday, ‘The Tribute Rare Tawny’ will be officially released and available for sale in March, personally signed by Joe. This 60-year-old fortified was bottled in tribute to Giuseppe (Chef Joe) De Ieso and family’s arrival in Australia 60 years ago and for the contributions to the Australian hospitality and wine industry.

Cheers for now…. Carmine et Squad of Carmine’s Beverley Cellar.