About
The ancient limestone ridge, with its rich red soil, was the catalyst to establish the Myrtle Point Vineyard; driven by our unique soil structure, commitment to biological farming and our appetite to explore and build on traditional wine making. Located in our little patch of the Gippsland Lakes district, Lightfoot wines reflect their origins in the vineyard, the cool coastal climate, and the creativity of the winemaking team.
We love everything about wine which is why we love to experiment. Our range includes some lesser-known wine styles and grapes not to mention emerging styles in our limited release range. Classic styles can be found in the Single Block wines, and the Myrtle Point Vineyard wines round out the range with contemporary wine styles for any occasion.
People
Rob & Tom Lightfoot took over the vineyard from their parents in 2007, after spending time away from the region but still in the wine industry. Learning from industry heavyweights, both here and overseas, cemented their passion for the industry and the drive to return to East Gippsland and create Lightfoot Wines. “I’d spent a fair bit of time working in Oregon in the US, growing and making Pinot Noir. The Willamette Valley has a lot in common with Gippsland, and I was keen to come back home and use that experience to make Pinot Noir from our vineyard.” Tom Lightfoot “As the business grew it was important to put together the right team, looking for the right people to complement our skill set and share our vision” Rob Lightfoot.
Winemaker Alastair Butt had also moved to Gippsland in 2007, had a lot of experience and was a big part of the transition from grape growers to winemakers. His enthusiasm, particularly for Chardonnay, has been a pivotal part of the Lightfoot Wines story. The team has continued to grow, especially with the addition of a cellar door in 2017. “We are fortunate to have built up a team of people here who are really committed to what we do and are passionate about winemaking in Gippsland.” Marketing Manager, Simon Cordery.
Exploring and building on traditional wine making
Winemaking
Our approach to winemaking is one that walks a line between tradition and exploration. Respecting the principles of classic winemaking is important, but so too is the need to try something different to help understand our site and the wines that are possible.
Vineyard
Planted in 1995 by the Lightfoot family. Originally a cattle farm, the discovery of the famed “Terra Rossa over Limestone” soils changed everything. The limestone bluff extends from the foothills in a finger-like plateau above the Mitchell River valley. The Home Block Chardonnay was planted in 1995, with blocks of Shiraz and Pinot Noir planted in the following two years.
“We have come a long way since planting the first vines way back in 1995. Every aspect of what we do has changed and evolved. The most significant change is our shift from traditional viticulture to a biological farming model motivated by both the pursuit of quality and a desire to improve sustainability. The main difference is that we used to focus just on the fruit, whereas we now take a more holistic approach which starts with soil health. The use of compost, mulch, fish and seaweed emulsions creates a healthy soil biome and, as a result, healthier vines that are robust, and yield high quality fruit”. Tom Lightfoot, Viticulturalist & Winemaker.
Soils – Terra Rossa over Limestone
Climate – Cool/Coastal.
Elevation – 60m
Tom’s picks
Whilst I love fortifieds all year ‘round, winter is the best season for them. A cheeky glass of Darkfoot by the fire is one of my favourite things. The cool weather is also a great excuse to cook up a bit hearty dinner and enjoy it with a glass of 2021 Myrtle Point Vineyard Shiraz. This medium bodied shiraz, with its plump dark fruits is just the thing on a cold winter’s night.
This Shiraz is all about deep blood-red vibes with black plum jam, white pepper, and blackberry pudding. Smooth tannins, rich fruit, and a bit of oak – it’s a cool, complex drop.
