The Vineyard

Our Vineyard has grown to be the largest in the Gippsland Lakes Region. With plantings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, we both supply other wineries with fruit, and are able to make all of our own wines from Estate fruit.

The cool- climate of the Gippsland Lakes District is moderated by the proximity to the coast as well as the Gippsland Lakes system, which can be seen to the East. The Region has a very similar climate to other renowned regions such as the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Coonawarra. For the those who are more technically minded our Effective Heat Degree Day factor in the region range between 1300 and 1470 (by comparison: Coonawarra -1430, Yarra Valley 1250 – 1350, Mornington Peninsula 1080 - 1570).

The specific soil structure is referred to as terra-rossa over limestone, and is very similar to the celebrated soils of the Coonawarra region in South Australia. The red topsoil is rich and free draining but typically less than 1 meter deep and sits above a layer of porous limestone. The vine roots explore the full depth of the terra rossa, but rarely venture into the limestone beneath because of high alkalinity and impenetrability. These more shallow root systems tend to place the vines under some stress during vintage, naturally creating lower yields of more intensely flavoured grapes, ideal for making premium wine.