New Vineyards

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 03, 2006

In our continuing efforts to explore different varieties we are now in the process of replanting or grafting several small vineyards on the estate.

In four instances, Cabernet Sauvignon will make way for other varieties, although the small old vineyards supplying Mary Kathleen and Coriole Cabernet Sauvignon will be retained.

New rootstocks include Tahbilk clone Shiraz (R6WV28), sourced from 1860 plantings in the Goulbourn River Valley, and believed to be the original Shiraz clone in Australia. We�ve chosen this clone for its low yields and open bunches. We expect this to suit the shallow limestone soils of the site.

We are planting more Sangiovese "Brunello" clone, from the famous Chianti sub-region of Montalcino. This clone is adding a little more complexity to our Sangiovese wines. Still pioneering Italian varieties, we are also in the process of planting more Fiano, the Italian white grape that we have selected, confi dent that it has a big future in Australia.

Traditionalists will be pleased to hear that we are planting a new bush-vine Grenache vineyard. Here is a challenge for our viticulturist Rachel Steer; to rediscover the planting techniques of a previous generation. The clones sourced were selected from old Barossa vineyards.

Back to: Latest News Index