Vineyard

Our vineyard is planted to 12 different varieties of grapes. The whites are Chardonnay, Viognier, Roussanne and Pinot Gris. Our reds are Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Tempranillo and Nebbiolo.

For each variety a number of different clones have been planted. The vines were planted from 1999 and are predominantly planted on rootstock to protect from Phylloxera.

However, we have some special blocks planted on their own roots. These were planted from outstanding Shiraz vineyards including the Brokenwood Graveyard, the Rayner Vineyard and Seville Estate Old Vine. Our Roussanne was grown with cuttings from Giaconda vineyard.

Each block and variety are managed to achieve the very best from the grapes. Cabernet is spur pruned while the Pinot Noir is cane pruned, allowing for effective canopy management. We also experiment with arch cane pruning.

Intricate canopy work is carried out through the season ensure optimum vine balance and to maximise fruit characteristics and flavours. Shoot thinning, crop thinning and general management is all done by hand. Most fruit is also handpicked.

The vineyard soils range from granitic sands to clay loams. Most of the vineyard is undulating North-South and East facing. This ensures maximum light interception, but minimises the harsh afternoon summer sun.

The vineyard has a discrete microclimate. The diversity of blocks, aspects and clones provides interesting winemaking opportunities.