ESTATE
Our Vineyard Philosophy
Biological farming practices are being used wherever practicable to assist soil biology, better utilise nutrients, suppress disease, improve water efficiency and promote better soil structure. The overall effect is to make the vines healthier, more ‘water wise’ and more resistant to attack from pests and disease. The fruit and our wines reflect this.
Our Wine Philosophy
Our wine is made on-site using hand picked grapes, small batch fermentation, minimal oak influence and wild yeasts.
Back Block Vineyard
This block of 42 acres fronts Maddens Lane. It retains one parcel of Pinot Noir (clone MV6) planted in 1998 (but not on phylloxera resistant rootstock).
In 2010, we established small plantings of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec, together with Arneis, Chenin Blanc, Fiano, Garganega, Vermentino and Sangiovese on this block. These are on phylloxera resistant rootstock and contribute to our Arcobaleno and Cinq Amis wines.
Since 2016 we have been replacing many of the vines that were not on phylloxera resistant rootstock and are now growing Pinot Gris and new clones of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Grenache – all on phylloxera resistant rootstock.
Front Block Vineyard
This block is 41 acres and has frontage to both Maddens Lane and the Maroondah Highway. One of the Yarra Valley’s oldest wool sheds is on this corner and can be seen from both roads. Our winery is located here, near to our cellar door building.
All vines planted on the Front Block are on phylloxera resistant rootstock. In 2000, we planted Pinot Noir (clones 114, 115 and 777), Pinot Meunier (clone H10V5), Shiraz (clone PT23) and Viognier (Montpellier clone). Planting continued with Chardonnay (Gin Gin clone in 2001 and later Bernard 76 and 95 clones).
We are currently replacing the Shiraz vines – stay in touch to find out what we plant next!