{"title":"yarra valley red wines","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"coldstream-hills-pinot-noir-2012","title":"Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir 2012","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eColdstream Hills was established in 1985 by Jame Halliday and has since grown to become one of Australia's leading small wineries. Situated in the picturesque Yarra Valley east of Melbourne, the steep close planted vineyards of Coldstream Hills have become a signature of the region. So too have its wines, which reflect regional character, consistency and style.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Very pure and tense across the palate, finishes with almost the pucker of sourness, but it's not, it's just hewn to a rapier-point with succulent acidity. Smooth, flowing, light to medium bodied feel with graphite minerality laid under bright fruit flavours. Not for the hedonists as is, but for those seeking architecture in their drinking now and across some time.\"  Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"I spoke with James Halliday at an event recently about 2012 pinot noirs in the Yarra Valley in general, and that I was pretty impressed with what I had seen on a trip mid-harvest, though of course many wines weren't released. I wouldn't say he agreed with me, more that he gave me an impression he was similarly excited about prospects of the same genre. And when I pressed him on his overseer's eye on Coldstream Hills 2012 offerings, he paused, and launched into an effusive but very genuine monologue on the excellence of this vintage (2012) of pinot noirs. Genuinely excited. Genuinely pleased for the team. Genuinely convinced that fruit was excellent.\"   \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Sometimes when I open some pinot noirs, and my mind wanders to more traditional Burgundy producers, the first five minutes or so is for letting the wine get past the pent-up oak aromas, fancy as they may be. This wine did the same – fancy oak aromas for the first five minutes, then the dark and red fruit flows with a higher tone of what I call alpine herbs. Very pure and tense across the palate, finishes with almost the pucker of sourness, but it's not, it's just hewn to a rapier-point with succulent acidity. Smooth, flowing, light to medium bodied feel with graphite minerality laid under bright fruit flavours. Not for the hedonists as is, but for those seeking architecture in their drinking now and across some time. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDrink: 2013-2023.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front – 93+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Coldstream Hills Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Coldstreamhills_1024x1024.png?v=1673489938\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWine writer, judge and personality James Halliday Suzanne and his wife Suzanne founded Coldstream Hills in 1985. It has since grown to become one of Australia's leading small wineries, with a reputation for producing high quality estate wines and outstanding single vineyard and reserve wines. Situated in the Yarra Valley, one of Australia's premier cool climate wine regions, the steep, close-planted vineyards lining the natural Amphitheatre have become a signature of the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Amphitheatre and House Block were planted in 1985. Land adjacent to Coldstream Hills was purchased in 1988, followed by the planting of G Block with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. The year ended with the construction of the winery. The Upper Yarra Valley Vineyard was planted in 1993, followed by the acquisition of the Briarston Vineyard in 1994, and the Fernhill Vineyard in 1996. A new temperature-controlled barrel cellar, capable of handling up to 1500 barrels, was built in 1999. In 2013, Coldstream Hills purchased the Deer Farm Vineyard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemakers Andrew Fleming and Jarratt joined Coldstream Hills in 2001 and are still there today. Andrew has more than 30 years of winemaking experience, including vintages in France at the iconic Chateau Haut Brion in Bordeaux and in the Languedoc region. Their leadership has produced a string of wine show awards over the ensuing years.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42763699192049,"sku":"","price":46.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/coldstream-hills-pinot-noir-2012.jpg?v=1695958910"},{"product_id":"coombe-farm-pinot-noir-2018","title":"Coombe Farm Pinot Noir 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eCoombe Farm is part of Melbourne's heritage. The estate in the Yarra Valley was established in the late 1880s by the father of Dame Nellie Melba, David Mitchell. The large Coombe Farm estate includes over sixty hectares of grapevines, located entirely in the sub-region of Coldstream, some planted on the site of Victoria's oldest vineyards that were established by Hubert de Castella in the mid-1850s. Coombe Farm Wines are classically varietal and regionally expressive and are handcrafted in very small volumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe 2018 Coombe Farm pinot noir is a lovely succulent, medium-bodied pinot noir full of sweet, spicy strawberry and cherry fruits. The finish is long and clean, inexorably drawing the taster back for another sip.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Classic Yarra Valley Pinot from an excellent vintage. This 2018 Pinot Noir is perfumed, bright and lifted, with a complex compote of red fruits and florals on the nose. The palate gives pleasant hints of confected strawberry and cherry fruits, with savoury, earthy tones and crunchy tannins. The finish is long, with layers of complexity that linger in the mouth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur 2018 Pinot Noir is a blend of clones MV6 (62%), 115 (21%) and 114 (17%) sourced from our North facing, hillside block. Fruit was hand harvested in a series of small batches and fermented separately in open-top fermenters with approximately 25% whole bunch fermentation. The wine was matured in a combination of new, one and two-year-old French barriques for a period of 10 months.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCoombe farm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReview of 2017 Vintage:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Pinot noir in a very good place. Pure pleasure is to be had here. It's so fresh, so perfumed, so strawberried, so intricately littered with sweet, woodsy spices. Tannin is chalky but fine; length is satisfying but a little bound up, as though time is needed. It has shape; it has composure. It's quite lovely. Drink 2019-20125.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front – 93+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Coombe Farm Wines\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/CoombeFarmWines_1024x1024.png?v=1676525133\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoombe Farm is part of Melbourne's heritage. The estate in the Yarra Valley was established in the late 1880s by the father of Dame Nellie Melba, David Mitchell, who was also the stonemason responsible for some of Melbourne's most renowned buildings, such as the Royal Exhibition Buildings in Carlton.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyards of Coombe Farm are located entirely in the sub-region of Coldstream and produce ultra-premium wine grapes for many of Australia's leading wine producers. The large Coombe Farm estate includes over sixty hectares of grapevines, some planted on the site of Victoria's oldest vineyards that were established by Hubert de Castella in the mid-1850s.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCoombe Farm Wines are classically varietal and regionally expressive. They are handcrafted in very small volumes, entirely from estate-grown fruit that has been chosen as the best the vineyard has to offer. The first wine made under the Coombe Farm label was a 2002 Pinot Noir. Since then the range has developed into a small yet comprehensive display of both the traditional and alternative varieties and styles that Coombe Farm and the Yarra Valley do best.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42763699257585,"sku":"","price":32.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/products\/coombe-farm-pinot-noir-2018.jpg?v=1653258701"},{"product_id":"diamond-valley-vineyards-white-label-pinot-noir-2001","title":"Diamond Valley Vineyards White Label Pinot Noir 2001","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Diamond Valley Diamond Valley Vineyards White Label Pinot Noir is much sought after by serious pinot drinkers. This intensely flavoured, marvellously complex wine consistently delights with concentrated fruit, beautiful balance and lingering full flavours, and has been rewarded with an abundance of show medals and trophies.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The 2001 release is a stunning wine, which at present needs extended breathing (3 hours+) to open out and reveal its beauty and give some indication of what it will have to offer in a few years time. The palate is utterly seductive - rich and complex, with red berry fruit flavours, cherries, plum, and a hint of game; supported by beautiful oak treatment and lovely acid balance. Wonderful velvety texture. A powerful wine, with great structure, intensity and length.\"  Nick Munday \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium purple-red; the bouquet is complex, with an obvious contribution from French oak, and some whole bunch maceration characters; the palate is unusually full-bodied for Diamond Valley, flooded with sweet plum and dark cherry fruit, soft and velvety throughout.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 94 points\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2001 release is a stunning wine, which at present needs extended breathing (3 hours+) to open out and reveal its beauty and give some indication of what it will have to offer in a few years time. Brilliant deep ruby red with hints of purple. The nose shows complex aromas of rich, ripe raspberry, wild strawberry, dark cherry, beetroot and plum. The palate is utterly seductive - rich and complex, with red berry fruit flavours, cherries, plum, and a hint of game; supported by beautiful oak treatment and lovely acid balance. Wonderful velvety texture. A powerful wine, with great structure, intensity and length.\"\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  Nick Munday, Canterbury Wines\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiamond Valley was established in 1976 by David and Cathy Lance in Melbourne's beautiful Yarra Valley wine region. The aim and philosophy were simple – to grow the finest grapes possible, luscious, ripe and with excellent varietal character, and to handcraft these grapes into elegant and distinctive wines of the highest quality.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Since its first release in 1982, Diamond Valley Vineyards has enjoyed outstanding success with its wines, yet has through choice remained one of Australia's smaller wineries. By adhering to the founding philosophy, the wines have been consistently excellent, amassing a tally of awards quite out of proportion to the size of the winery and justifying Diamond Valley's insistence on quality before quantity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe on-site winery is designed to allow vinification to the highest standards. All wines are bottled in the winery's own high quality bottling facility. The White Label wines express the terroir of the site. Excellent sun exposure over consistently long, clear ripening periods and careful canopy management produce low-yielding fruit of superb quality. The resulting White Label range of wines consists of Chardonnay, Cabernets, Merlot, Shiraz and the famous Pinot Noir. The intensely flavoured, marvellously complex wines consistently delight with concentrated fruit, beautiful balance and lingering full flavours, and have been rewarded with an abundance of show medals and more than 30 trophies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2005 the business name and wine stocks were sold to Graeme Rathbone, the brother of Doug Rathbone, the owner of Yering station, Parker Coonawarra Estate, Mount Langi Ghiran and Xanadu. James Lance, David's son, continues to make the wine and much of the fruit is sourced from the Lance Family's Vineyard. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiamond Valley Vineyards is no longer in operation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42763701911793,"sku":"","price":74.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Diamond-Valley-Vineyards-White-Label-Pinot-Noir-2001_c68a892e-27df-4fe4-bee8-05270a0ed16a.jpg?v=1696388801"},{"product_id":"wantirna-estate-amelia-cabernet-sauvignon-merlot-2019","title":"Wantirna Estate Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"One of my most favourite wines... delivers so much flavour without being heavy. Beautiful.\"  Gary Walsh\u003cbr\u003e\"An understated Aussie classic that should be a pillar in any cellar.\"  Gabrielle Poy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWantirna Estate Vineyard is located just 22 km from the centre of the city of Melbourne in a suburb of the same name. It was founded by Reg and Bertina Egan in 1963. Today winemaking is a joint effort between Reg and his daughter, Maryann Egan. The father and daughter team have built a cult following for their artisanal wines. Wantirna's reputation was forged by this wine, its Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot. The grapes mainly come from the original 1963 plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines, with the exception of the Petit Verdot which was planted in 1989. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This announces its arrival with compelling aromas of mocha, cigar-box spice and a medley of black and red fruits. It's mesmerising, the nose keeps evolving with licorice and graphite notes emerging - very alluring and intoxicating. On the palate, it's elegantly composed, hitting just mid-weight with its alcohol. Fine silken tannins carry a myriad of flavours along, their powdery fineness defies what we think about cabernet. An understated Aussie classic that should be a pillar in any cellar.\"  Gabrielle Poy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe harvested the grapes over two weeks, bringing the Cabernet Franc and Merlot in first, followed by the Cabernet Sauvignon and finally the last variety to be harvested, Petit Verdot. Whilst the proportions are different every year, depending on fruit set and cropping levels, roughly speaking the breakdown is about as follows: 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% cabernet franc and merlot, and 5% petit verdot. The addition of the petit verdot grapes in the 1990s gave the wine an added backbone of tannin and natural acidity. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe 2019 is from a warmer year but the wine has the trademark elegance that Amelia is known for. It has terrific fruit and lovely long tannins that round the wine off beautifully as well as giving it structure and the ability to age very well. One of my most favourite wines.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWantirna Estate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Blackcurrant, blackberry, sarsaparilla\/liquorice pastille, so much violet here, and spiced cedar oak. Medium-bodied, dark fruit with some redcurrant in the mix, tobacco and pencils, a little chew to gravelly tannin, fresh too, with a firm long finish. Delivers so much flavour without being heavy. Beautiful. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDrink : 2023-2039\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis announces its arrival with compelling aromas of mocha, cigar-box spice and a medley of black and red fruits. It's mesmerising, the nose keeps evolving with licorice and graphite notes emerging - very alluring and intoxicating. On the palate, it's elegantly composed, hitting just mid-weight with its alcohol. Fine silken tannins carry a myriad of flavours along, their powdery fineness defies what we think about cabernet. An understated Aussie classic that should be a pillar in any cellar. Drink 2021-2031\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGabrielle Poy, The Real Review - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Traditionally cabernet merlot on the label, but actually a blend of 45% cabernet, 45% field blend of merlot and cab franc, with 10% petit verdot. Pressed to barrel and aged for another 20 months in French oak; 25% new. A deep crimson purple. Super-impressive with blackcurrant, cedar from well-handled oak and just a touch of cigar leaf. Textured and richly flavoured, with dark fruits on the palate as well as some savoury black olive\/tapenade flavours. The tannins are satiny and integrated. Enjoy this with richly flavoured food now or watch is slowly unfurl over the next 10–15 years.\"  \u003cstrong\u003ePhilip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReg and Maryann Egan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/WantirnaEstateReg_Maryann_1024x1024.png?v=1684194362\" alt=\"Reg \u0026amp; Maryann Egan\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/WantirnaEstateReg_Maryann_1024x1024.png?v=1684194362\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is a joint effort between Reg and his daughter, Maryann Egan. These days Reg describes himself as the interfering winemaker but back in the early days everything was done by Reg, dashing from his legal practice to the winery to check on the ferments. Today much of the winemaking responsibility has been transferred to Maryann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaryann initially did a degree in physical education before taking off backpacking to Europe. When she ran out of money, the natural response was to go and reacquaint herself with the winemakers she'd met in her childhood. After a vintage in Burgundy, she returned to Australia to begin her Oenology studies at Charles Sturt University.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the next six years Maryann worked at Domaine Chandon making both sparkling and table wines. After the birth of her first child Amelia in 1996, she returned to Wantirna Estate. Along with her commitment to the winery, Maryann has been a wine writer for Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, wine editor for Donna Hay magazine and a presenter on the SBS series The Wine Lover's Guide to Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe following article by Sarah Ahmed is reproduced from: https:\/\/thewinedetective.co.uk\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI hadn't appreciated quite how lucky I was to visit Wantirna Estate until (a) I saw the tiny barrel cellar and (b) dropping me off at Yarra Yering, winemaker Maryann Egan was warmly greeted by top Melbourne restaurant Vue du Monde's sommelier; his annual allocation is one mixed case!  I gather most of the wines are sold direct to private mail list customers who, on two Saturdays in October, are invited to the winery to pick up their wines and have a sneak preview of the new releases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWantirna Estate's loyal customers know what's what.  These are distinguished wines from one of the Yarra Valley's pioneering modern era estates.  Planted in 1963 by lawyer Reg Egan and his wife Bertina, the improbable location – almost equidistant between Melbourne city centre and Mount Mary (the next closest Yarra Valley estate) – is partly down to logistics.  Reg, back then a full-time lawyer, told me the vineyard had to be near his practice in Melbourne's Mount Waverley suburb.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf course, it wasn't the only rationale.  Having studied Dr A.C. Kelly's and Francois de Castella's vintage (as in old) viticultural tomes, the young lawyer knew he wanted to plant on eastern slopes to avoid the afternoon sun and was attracted to Wantirna's thin top soil over clay.  Even today, the estate's 12 acres of vines are mostly dry grown.   Though the soils are similar to to Lilydale, unlike Lilydale, Wantirna is in the Dandenong Creek, not Yarra River catchment area.  Vis a vis climate, Reg observed this means that Wantirna is a little more moderated by the ocean – perhaps 35 degrees during the daytime versus 37 degrees in the Yarra (as it was on the day of my visit); conversely, when it's 12 degrees in the Yarra catchment area at night, it would be 15 at Wantirna.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eForeseeability is something of a preoccupation among lawyers.  Still, I wonder if Reg foresaw the re-zoning of his property and thousands of acres surrounding it as green belt.  \"We're the only ones left,” said Maryann, since Parks Victoria has progressively taken over the orchards which used to be all around.  As if to fit in with the spirit of things, with its billiard table-like turf, hedged beds and ornamental roses, the vineyard feels like an extension of the garden to the house Reg built in 1971.  In turn, the house segues into the pocket-sized winery, whose reception centre doubles as a garage.  Reg was much less keen that I photograph the pylons which stride through the vineyard.  They are a dissonant note to this small-scale, lovingly handcrafted operation, in which Reg (who jacked in law for wine in 1984) evidently retains a keen, green-fingered hand, though Maryann is very much at the helm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs for Maryann, just like fellow Yarra Valley Wine Women's Sandra de Pury of Yeringberg who enjoyed a career as a chef, then consultant before succeeding her father as winemaker, the last thing Egan wanted to do was work on the family vineyard, \"living in the back of beyond.” But as wine lovers know all too well, wine gets in the blood in every sense.  Can it be any coincidence that, brought up on her father's fine cellar of French classics, Maryann ended up in Paris and, finding herself penniless, asked for her father's help finding vintage work?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe landed in Burgundy, working with Sophie Confuron at Domaine J. Confuron and, the very next year, signed up to study viticulture and oenology by correspondence at Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga.  Though she held out from returning home for several years, doing a vintage at Tyrrell's, a short (\"hated it”) stint in wine retail and working as an assistant winemaker at Domaine Chandon up the road, in 1996 she joined her father at Wantirna, following the birth of her first child.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoking that they've always been on trend, Maryann confirmed all Wantirna's wines are single vineyard, the Cabernet Sauvignon is a field blend (the vineyard is interspersed with Merlot and Cabernet Franc) and they've always fermented in cement tanks. \"We're small enough to do it all” she added, \"with total control.”  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cimg alt=\"Wantirna Estate Pinot Noir\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/WantirnaEstatelabel_2_1024x1024.png?v=1684281525\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/WantirnaEstatelabel_2_1024x1024.png?v=1684281525\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWantirna Estate Vineyard is located just 22 km from the centre of the city of Melbourne in Victoria, in a suburb of the same name. It was founded by Reg and Bertina Egan in 1963 and was the first of the new generation vineyards planted outside the region of the Yarra Valley. Reg was a lawyer and the vineyard was a hobby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe early plantings were a bit of everything as Reg thought that the vineyard would be an experimental site and that he would have to move to another location as the suburbs continued to spread.  So, he planted a bit of a fruit salad to see what performed best - the classics like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but also a mixed bag of the Italian and Spanish varieties Grenache, Pedro Ximenes, Shiraz, Crouchon, Barbara and Malbec. As the vines produced grapes, he gradually assessed their performance and replaced them with the varieties that did well in the cool climate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt wasn't until 1985 that Reg gave up being a Barrister to focus solely on viticulture and winemaking. By this time the vineyard had been consolidated to Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and the Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Petit Verdot was added in 1989.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday winemaking is a joint effort between Reg and his daughter, Maryann Egan. Reg now describes himself as the interfering winemaker and most of the winemaking responsibility has been transferred to Maryann. Maryann studied oenology at Charles Sturt University and then worked at Domaine Chandon for six years making both sparkling and table wines. After the birth of her first child Amelia in 1996, she returned to Wantirna Estate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe father and daughter team have built a cult following for their artisanal wines - 'Hannah' Cabernet Franc Merlot, 'Amelia' \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCabernet Sauvignon Merlot, 'Lily' Pinot Noir and 'Isabella' Chardonnay.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"We look to have the vineyard site shine. To not overdo the oak, or fiddle too much. We don't lees stir our Chardonnay, basically we ferment the juice in barrel and leave it alone. We use 25% or less new French oak, oak should be the nuance in the background, rather than the main event. The Pinot Noir we destem and then ferment, without the stalks. The whole bunch character – I've tried a portion in the past – doesn't suit our site. We like the Pinot fruit to shine, to show the place where it was grown, and to have a nice backbone of tannin. The Cabernet blend is similar. A touch more new oak – around 30% as that really balances the beautifully ripe character we get. Tasting the Cabernet grapes is one of the most important vineyard and vintage time decisions. It's important to get past that herbaceous character, but to pick before the grapes get too ripe and lose their ‘cabernetness'.  Overall, we use a light hand on our winemaking, and let the vineyard do the talking.”  says Maryann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWantirna gradually renamed their wines to include the names of their four granddaughters. They also got Michael Leunig, famous cartoonist, artist, satirist and social commentator, and a friend of Reg's, to illustrate the labels which depict something about each of the girl's personalities.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42858176577777,"sku":"","price":94.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/wantirna-estate-amelia-cabernet-sauvignon-merlot-2019_8b511f14-5ef0-48af-b329-1517ca20816a.jpg?v=1698788448"},{"product_id":"de-bortoli-villages-pinot-noir-2019","title":"De Bortoli Villages Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit for the 2019 De Bortoli Villages Pinot Noir was sourced from the three De Bortoli vineyards in the Yarra Valley along with fruit from selected growers with vineyards in Coldstream, Tarrawarra and Beenak. Approximately 15-25% whole bunches are included in the ferment with maturation taking place in French oak casks for 8 months.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Given that 2019 was a great vintage for pinot noir in the Yarra Valley, it comes as no surprise that this is a particularly successful release under this label. Highly varietal with lovely fresh strawberry and cherry flavours on a palate that is sharpened by bright acidity. Very European in structure and style. Pinot noir of this quality at this price truly defies the odds.\"  Nick Munday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Vibrant red hue with a nice depth of colour. Youthful and complex, showing aromas reminiscent of wood spice, violets and red fruits. Textural, plump, fine and silky tannins. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit was hand harvested. A combination of whole berry and whole bunch is tipped into both open-top and small static fermenters. 10-15 days of maceration and fermentation. Pressed, settled overnight and then filled to French oak casks for maturation for 8 months.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eDe Bortoli\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Given that 2019 was a great vintage for pinot noir in the Yarra Valley, it comes as no surprise that this is a particularly successful release under this label. Highly varietal with lovely fresh strawberry and cherry flavours on a palate that is sharpened by bright acidity. Very European in structure and style. Pinot noir of this quality at this price truly defies the odds.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Munday, Canterbury Wines - 93+ points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Canterbury Wines\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"De Bortoli Yarra valley Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/DeBortoliVineyards_7b65c4d1-bb85-4da2-a42e-e523c47d67b9_1024x1024.png?v=1679173952\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/DeBortoliVineyards_7b65c4d1-bb85-4da2-a42e-e523c47d67b9_1024x1024.png?v=1679173952\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVittorio De Bortoli carried his dreams of a better life from the alpine foothills of Italy's north to the fertile Riverina region in New South Wales when he immigrated to Australia in 1924. He subsequently p\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eurchased a 55-acre fruit farm in 1928, a year there was a glut of shiraz grapes and many farmers see it cheaper to let the grapes rot on the vines. Vittorio takes them for free and crushes 15 tonnes of shiraz grapes. Local Italians and other European workers in the area offer to buy wine from him and De Bortoli Wines is born.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVittorio's son, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDeen De Bortoli, was born in 1936 and at 15 years of age he left school against his parents' wishes to begin working in the family winery at Bilbul. In the late '50s he begins modernising the winery and expanding production.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDarren, Leanne, Kevin and Victor De Bortoli, the third generation of the family and the children of Deen and Emeri De Bortoli, are the custodians of De Bortoli Wines today. Each has pride in and a commitment to the business, alongside a passion for great wine and a sense of responsibility about leaving a legacy for future generations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDe Bortoli Wines established the Yarra Valley Estate in 1987, acquiring some of the oldest plantings in the region. In 1989, Leanne De Bortoli married winemaker Steve Webber and the De Bortoli family approached them to head up operations at the new Yarra Valley Estate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteve Webber completed his studies in winemaking at Roseworthy in 1982 and prior to taking up the reins at De Bortoli, gained valuable winemaking experience at Leo Buring and Lindemans. Steve describes the transition at de Bortoli as \"a steep learning curve\"; understanding the seasons, learning about the different aspects, experimenting with varieties and clones, all with the goal of making wine with a sense of place. He has won several major awards including Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year in 2007 and the Jimmy Watson Trophy in 1997, and has been a Wine-show judge over the last 25 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe De Bortoli wines are released in three quality and price tiers - at the top Single Vineyard, then Estate Grown and then Villages. The Estate and Villages labels, in particular, offer exceptional value for money. In addition, there are a number of small-volume labels produced:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe PHI range from the iconic 7.5ha Lusatia Park Vineyard in the Yarra Valley and the Freemans Bridge Vineyard in Heathcote, both purchased by De Bortoli in 2016\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe Riorret Single Vineyard range from the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLusatia Park Vineyard and the Abbey Vineyard at Tarrawarra\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe Melba range; three premium Cabernet Sauvignons from the Melba Vineyard at Dixons Creek \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Boheme, an aromatic range of bistro Yarra Valley wines  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896836919537,"sku":"","price":21.5,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/De-Bortoli-Villages-Pinot-Noir-2019.jpg?v=1696387607"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019","title":"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrophy, Best Pinot Noir of Show - 2020 Yarra Valley Wine Show\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1998\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit from the best vineyards in great years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This is a stunning Pinot Noir, it is pretty, structural and has a purity of fruit that is met in equal measure by subtle savoury texture from whole bunches and the delicate spice that comes from new French oak. The palate builds beautifully with a meld of red and black cherry; undergrowth, rhubarb and finely tuned acidity define the mid palate with the complex and long finish a layered expression of fruit and gentle spice. A benchmark example of Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Patrick Eckel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Applejack Vineyard, named after the Applejack eucalypts that surround the vineyard, is located at Gladysdale in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted in 1997 by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is meticulously managed by his son Mark. This vineyard was purchased by Phil Sexton in 2013. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated at an elevation of 320 metres, the higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley) and is ideally suited to growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic, northeast-facing slope with close-planted vines. The vineyard is planted to seven Pinot Noir clones - 114, 115, MV6, D2V5, D5V15, Pommard and Abel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\"I've long considered the Applejack vineyard to be one of the greatest sites for pinot in Australia.\"  Philip Rich\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Cold soak for 3 – 4 days, then allowed to warm to kick start fermentation Indigenous yeast. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The \"D” clones from the middle of the hill were fermented as whole bunches, while the Pommard, Abel and MV6 were destemmed, soaked cold for 5 days, then allowed to warm gently into a wild ferment. All parcels were matured in French oak – 25% new, 75% older – for 8 months in 225L barriques.  Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration.  Bottled by gravity.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This wine shouts Applejack from the rooftops: it's perfumed, elegant and relatively light-bodied, but with a fireworks display of red fruits and complex, savoury tannins.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e As with all Giant Steps pinots, it's not fined or filtered.”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, The Australian - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This is a stunning Pinot Noir, it is pretty, structural and has a purity of fruit that is met in equal measure by subtle savoury texture from whole bunches and the delicate spice that comes from new French oak. The palate builds beautifully with a meld of red and black cherry; undergrowth, rhubarb and finely tuned acidity define the mid palate with the complex and long finish a layered expression of fruit and gentle spice. A benchmark example of Australian Pinot Noir.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePatrick Eckel - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Expressively complex with plenty of red-cherry, strawberry and pomegranate aromas, as well as oak spice and sappy notes. The palate has impressive density with focus. The spiced blueberry flavors are intense, fresh and long and there's such vibrant acidity sustaining the long finish.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Stock, James Suckling.com – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to light red\/purple hue, the aroma fusty, earthy, forest floor, a note of oak and a touch of humus. Very rich and ripe, almost opulent flavour with charming fruit sweetness and a succulent core. A delicious wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTrophy, Best Pinot Noir of Show - 2020 Yarra Valley Wine Show\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eApplejack vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsApplejackVineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1689389529\" alt=\"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApplejack Vineyard  (Upper Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley and is closely planted and fastidiously managed. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard joined the Giant Steps family of Single Vineyards in 2013.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThis vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley – its eastern aspect means the sun rises to gently warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat by the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. We notice it produces the most earthen pinot noirs, that have the beautiful perfume and exotic red fruits that we love about Pinot, with complex notes of fresh turned earth, miso and mushroom. The flavours combined with wound tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\"  \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLocation:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGladysdale            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 320 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: East-facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 12.5 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: 1997                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: Grey clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e I10V1     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eAbel, MV6, Pommard, 114, 115, D2V5, D5V15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\" alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896842850545,"sku":"","price":99.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019.jpg?v=1696554668"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1998\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit from the best vineyards in great years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"'I reckon a really good year for Applejack', says winemaker Steve Flamsteed. He isn't wrong. Giant Steps is at top of their game. Acid driven, light and fragrant style, has that sense of sleekness from fine pinot tannins yet is tightly wound, coiled and precise as it rolls through the palate. Savoury edged red fruit to taste. Balanced, lithe, very finely wrought. Such elegance, and, importantly, incredible sense of energy in the wine. Now we can use the word outstanding.\"  Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Applejack Vineyard, named after the Applejack eucalypts that surround the vineyard, is located at Gladysdale in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted in 1997 by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is meticulously managed by his son Mark. This vineyard was purchased by Phil Sexton in 2013. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated at an elevation of 320 metres, the higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley) and is ideally suited to growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic, northeast-facing slope with close-planted vines. The vineyard is planted to seven Pinot Noir clones - 114, 115, MV6, D2V5, D5V15, Pommard and Abel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I've long considered the Applejack vineyard to be one of the greatest sites for pinot in Australia.\"  Philip Rich\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Hand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Cold soak for 3 – 4 days, then allowed to warm to kick start fermentation Indigenous yeast. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The \"D” clones from the middle of the hill were fermented as whole bunches, while the Pommard, Abel and MV6 were destemmed, soaked cold for 5 days, then allowed to warm gently into a wild ferment. All parcels were matured in French oak – 25% new, 75% older – for 8 months in 225L barriques.  Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration.  Bottled by gravity.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The bouquet is a perfumed mix of red fruit blossom, the red berry flavours of the palate symbiotically joined with the bouquet. It is a wine of exquisite purity and detail in its texture, and as befits a pinot of this quality, the palate is very long, the peacock's tail opening on the finish\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by 2027.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 98 points and Top 100 Wines of 2022 and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eI reckon a really good year for Applejack', says winemaker Steve Flamsteed, 'rain came every ten days and just kind of kept everything very fresh'. He isn't wrong. Such a lovely, thoughtful, progressive thinking human too. No wonder Giant Steps is at top of their game.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAcid driven, light and fragrant style, has that sense of sleekness from fine pinot tannins yet is tightly wound, coiled and precise as it rolls through the palate. Red currants, cranberry, smoke and sweet earth to sniff on. Savoury edged red fruit to taste. Balanced, lithe, very finely wrought. Such elegance, and, importantly, incredible sense of energy in the wine. Now we can use the word outstanding. Drink: 2018-2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front – 96+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This has a very compelling presence from the first glance. Deep, sappy strawberry and blueberry fruits interact with a wealth of sappy herbs and a spicy background edge; this is a wine with raw appeal. The palate has deep-set flesh and drive, smooth curvaceous tannins and a striking sense of effortless depth of flavor. Great wine, but much more to come. Try across the next decade.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eApplejack vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsApplejackVineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1689389529\" alt=\"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApplejack Vineyard  (Upper Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley and is closely planted and fastidiously managed. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard joined the Giant Steps family of Single Vineyards in 2013.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThis vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley – its eastern aspect means the sun rises to gently warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat by the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. We notice it produces the most earthen pinot noirs, that have the beautiful perfume and exotic red fruits that we love about Pinot, with complex notes of fresh turned earth, miso and mushroom. The flavours combined with wound tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\"  \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLocation:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGladysdale            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: 320 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: East-facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 12.5 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: 1997                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: Grey clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e I10V1     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eAbel, MV6, Pommard, 114, 115, D2V5, D5V15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\" alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" alt=\"\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\" \u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ePeter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896842883313,"sku":"","price":115.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1696549891"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019-1500ml","title":"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019 (1500ml)","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrophy, Best Pinot Noir of Show - 2020 Yarra Valley Wine Show\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1998\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit from the best vineyards in great years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This is a stunning Pinot Noir, it is pretty, structural and has a purity of fruit that is met in equal measure by subtle savoury texture from whole bunches and the delicate spice that comes from new French oak. The palate builds beautifully with a meld of red and black cherry; undergrowth, rhubarb and finely tuned acidity define the mid palate with the complex and long finish a layered expression of fruit and gentle spice. A benchmark example of Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Patrick Eckel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Applejack Vineyard, named after the Applejack eucalypts that surround the vineyard, is located at Gladysdale in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted in 1997 by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is meticulously managed by his son Mark. This vineyard was purchased by Phil Sexton in 2013. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated at an elevation of 320 metres, the higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley) and is ideally suited to growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic, northeast-facing slope with close-planted vines. The vineyard is planted to seven Pinot Noir clones - 114, 115, MV6, D2V5, D5V15, Pommard and Abel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\"I've long considered the Applejack vineyard to be one of the greatest sites for pinot in Australia.\"  Philip Rich\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Cold soak for 3 – 4 days, then allowed to warm to kick start fermentation Indigenous yeast. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The \"D” clones from the middle of the hill were fermented as whole bunches, while the Pommard, Abel and MV6 were destemmed, soaked cold for 5 days, then allowed to warm gently into a wild ferment. All parcels were matured in French oak – 25% new, 75% older – for 8 months in 225L barriques.  Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration.  Bottled by gravity.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This wine shouts Applejack from the rooftops: it's perfumed, elegant and relatively light-bodied, but with a fireworks display of red fruits and complex, savoury tannins.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e As with all Giant Steps pinots, it's not fined or filtered.”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, The Australian - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This is a stunning Pinot Noir, it is pretty, structural and has a purity of fruit that is met in equal measure by subtle savoury texture from whole bunches and the delicate spice that comes from new French oak. The palate builds beautifully with a meld of red and black cherry; undergrowth, rhubarb and finely tuned acidity define the mid palate with the complex and long finish a layered expression of fruit and gentle spice. A benchmark example of Australian Pinot Noir.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePatrick Eckel - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Expressively complex with plenty of red-cherry, strawberry and pomegranate aromas, as well as oak spice and sappy notes. The palate has impressive density with focus. The spiced blueberry flavors are intense, fresh and long and there's such vibrant acidity sustaining the long finish.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Stock, James Suckling.com – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to light red\/purple hue, the aroma fusty, earthy, forest floor, a note of oak and a touch of humus. Very rich and ripe, almost opulent flavour with charming fruit sweetness and a succulent core. A delicious wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTrophy, Best Pinot Noir of Show - 2020 Yarra Valley Wine Show\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eApplejack vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsApplejackVineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1689389529\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApplejack Vineyard  (Upper Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley and is closely planted and fastidiously managed. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard joined the Giant Steps family of Single Vineyards in 2013.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThis vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley – its eastern aspect means the sun rises to gently warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat by the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. We notice it produces the most earthen pinot noirs, that have the beautiful perfume and exotic red fruits that we love about Pinot, with complex notes of fresh turned earth, miso and mushroom. The flavours combined with wound tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\"  \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLocation:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGladysdale            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 320 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e East-facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: 12.5 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 1997                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: Grey clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e I10V1     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eAbel, MV6, Pommard, 114, 115, D2V5, D5V15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896842981617,"sku":"","price":299.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019-1500ml_b060d066-46bf-4b04-bdb7-c0ca8572c400.jpg?v=1696554718"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-lusatia-park-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015","title":"Giant Steps Lusatia Park Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Hooleydooley. If ya like ya pinot noir, and well, most of us do, then ya gunna like the Giant Steps 2015s. Perfect storm. How good are these vineyards? How good is Steve Flamsteed and co?\" - Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. The Lusatia Park Vineyard, now owned by De Bortoli, is located at Woori Yallock in the upper Yarra Valley and is considered one of Australia's top vineyards.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The ultra-fragrant\/scented bouquet is picked up unceremoniously by the brilliant palate and dispatched to the boundary. Takes the concept of elegant generosity to another level with more movement in the chorus of red fruit flavours than you might think possible. Combines elegance with spicy, savoury intensity.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe fruit for the 2015 Giant Steps Lusatia Park Vineyard Pinot Noir was hand picked and fermentation occured in 4000L open oak vats.  It is 30% whole bunch and saw around 11 months in used (75%) and new (25%) French Oak with no filtration at bottling. Only 3100 bottles made. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Superb colour; the ultra-fragrant\/scented bouquet is picked up unceremoniously by the brilliant palate and dispatched to the boundary. Takes the concept of elegant generosity to another level with more movement in the chorus of red fruit flavours than you might think possible. Combines elegance with spicy, savoury intensity. Drink to 2027.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Ahh such a shame that this wine landed separately and couldn't be tasted next to its 2015 siblings from Giant Steps. I'll stand behind the 2015 pinot noirs being exceptional, with none better than others. Just one of those rare things. Such a superb suite of wines. Lusatia Park Vineyard is located in Woori Yallock in the Yarra, planted in 1985, and known for its elevated, north-facing orientation, and close-planted vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOf the Giant Steps 2015  single vineyard pinot noirs this feels like the one with a touch more grunt, a little wild streak, sniffs of ferrous things in dark cherry, kirsch, briar. Deeply flavoured and then as the finish starts it kicks in with another burst of bright fruit – it's like the wine is bucking in the palate, yet set on impossibly supple curves. Floods the palate with cherry fruit, spice, herb, pomegranate acidity and barely there tannin. Unreal wine. Unreal. Drink: 2016-2028.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843112689,"sku":"","price":89.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-lusatia-park-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015.jpg?v=1696803656"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015","title":"Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Hooleydooley. If ya like ya pinot noir, and well, most of us do, then ya gunna like the Giant Steps 2015s. Perfect storm. How good are these vineyards? How good is Steve Flamsteed and co?\" - Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Another take on this great vintage, with savoury, spicy aromas and flavours surging over the bouquet and palate alike, putting whole bunch fermentation up in giant neon letters. The tangy, herbal, forest floor characters will always be the raison d'etre of the wine, and I hope I'm around to see how this evolves over time.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrimavera Vineyard\u003c\/span\u003e is located at \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWoori Yallock (Hoddles Creek) \u003c\/span\u003ein the upper Yarra Valley on deep red basalt soils. It was planted  in 2001 by \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLou Primavera, whose family have been involved in grape growing for over 40 years. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps have a long-standing relationship with the Primavera family, and now produce a single vineyard Pinot Noir from the fruit they source from the vineyard \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunder a long-term supervised contract. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe 12 hectare vineyard is located at an elevation of 240 metres on a north and north-east facing aspect. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra valley) and is ideally suited to growing Pinot Noir.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit for the 2015 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir was hand picked and fermentation occurs in 4000L open oak vats and 5000L open fermenters.  It is 100% whole bunch and sees 11 months in used (75%) and new (25%) French Oak with no filtration at bottling. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis has an expansive mood to it, whereby aromas float out in a stream of rich blue-tinged fruits together wtih gentle spices, rosehip and blood oranges. There are some more flinty, chalky and savory aromas, too. Here's a very seductive pinot that gets you lingering in the glass. The palate has a layered and smooth style to it, offering up lots of velvety and fine tannins that flow in waves, folding one after the other through the finish. Plenty of ripe dark-cherry and plum flavors plus hints of espresso and chocolate. This is a class act. Drink now and for 8+ years. This is from a site in the Hoddles Creek area of the Upper Yarra.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Another take on this great vintage, with savoury, spicy aromas and flavours surging over the bouquet and palate alike, putting whole bunch fermentation up in giant neon letters. The tangy, herbal, forest floor characters will always be the raison d'etre of the wine, and I hope I'm around to see how this evolves over time. From the Upper Yarra Valley. Drink by 2027.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 96 points \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand Special Value Wine  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eA new vineyard to join the suite of sites from Giant Steps. Applejack and Sexton vineyards are the other two, of course. What a superb set of wines from 2015. One also forgets that the wines are produced with gentle touch – hand picked, natural ferment, sent to mostly old oak for 11 months. This wine is 100% whole bunch too; and it's formative in this wine. It's what I called 'the most captivating' wine, in my notes. Sexton is spicy, sleek, elegant, Applejack is sinewy yet ethereal. More to come on those wines shortly…\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHaunting perfume of undergrowth, decaying flowers, pot pourri, rose water, pickled cherries, pepper, earth. It's elemental, guttural and wild to inhale. The palate has a swirl of dark cherry fruitiness, but again, savoury, earthy, briary character takes over. It crackles and swerves in the palate – there's juiciness but its ribbed with tannin and feels alive with crisp acidity. Long, so long, untamed, unkempt, but beautiful in its sweeping expression. Stains the glass with primal, sexual scent. A broad rugged landscape painted in detail. It's unbelievably good wine and will mature so, so intriguingly and well. Drink: 2016-2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrimavera vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\" alt=\"Giant steps Sexton Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrimavera\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Vineyard  (Upper Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAfter discovering Yarra Valley wines 25 years ago Lou Primavera planted this elevated vineyard in Hoddles Creek in 2001. We have a long-standing relationship with the Primavera family, having sourced fruit from the vineyard for some years. This small vineyard has Pinot planted on two slopes of the gully right at the start of the Lone Star Creek – with MV6 planted on the north slope and 115 and G-clone on the south slope. This vineyard always produced our most floral, red fruited and fragrant Pinot Noir, with a sweetness and softness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocation: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWoori Yallock, Hoddles Creek            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 240 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003eNorth and north-east facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 12 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 2001                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e Red clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eMV6, 115, G8V3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\" alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843145457,"sku":"","price":79.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015.jpg?v=1696803754"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Ripe cherry, red berry, faint meatiness, rose hip tea. Sets itself off on a darker, fuller path for pinot. Plush in the palate, dark chocolate and amaro, red berries, fine bitterness to finish with a smudge more bitter-dark chocolate. Mouthwatering, hunger-setting stuff. Fuller figured here. Breathy even. Nice though. Real nice. The 'generous one'.\"  Mike Bennie \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe\u003cspan\u003e Sexton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Vineyard\u003c\/span\u003e is located at \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGruyere\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein the Lower Yarra Valley and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewas \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eplanted in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e1997\u003c\/span\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003eThe 30 hectare vineyard is at an elevation of 130-210 metres, has north facing slopes on g\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003erey clay soils \u003c\/span\u003eand is planted to \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMV6, G5V15, POM5 and D clones.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit for the 2017 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir was hand picked and fermentation occurs in 4000L open oak vats and 5000L open fermenters.  It sees 11 months in used (75%) and new (25%) French Oak with no filtration at bottling. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Deliciously perfumed with pomegranate, jasmine, roses, cherries and blood oranges, as well as pink grapefruit. The spices here are entrancing. Full of complex and savory charm, it has a very impressive array of leaves and herbs too. The palate delivers rich brambly-fruit flavors amid assertive, long and convincing tannins, which hold impressive length. Tempting now, but it’ll be better in the next six to eight years. Drink or hold.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to full red\/purple colour. The bouquet is subdued but fresh, clean and brightly-fruited, with red and darker cherry aromas, the palate copying these precisely and adding a fine layer of soft tannins, the whole entity in impeccable balance. Delicious wine, rich and fruit-sweet, with a finish cleansed by ample supple tannins. Drink: 2018-2033.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Warmer site, about 180 metres above sea level. One of the 'classic' Giant Steps sites. Steve Flamsteed says the 2017 vintage is one of his favourites, though that's kind of a silly word. It's a very good year for his hands-off mode of winemaking, is more the point. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRipe cherry, red berry, faint meatiness, rose hip tea. Sets itself off on a darker, fuller path for pinot. Plush in the palate, dark chocolate and amaro, red berries, fine bitterness to finish with a smudge more bitter-dark chocolate. Mouthwatering, hunger-setting stuff. Fuller figured here. Breathy even. Nice though. Real nice. The 'generous one'. Drink: 2018-2025+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSexton vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\" alt=\"Giant steps Sexton Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\"\u003eSexton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Vineyard  (Lower Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocated on the steep slopes of the Warramate Ranges, alongside the vineyards of iconic Yarra producers Yarra Yering and Coldstream Hills, the Sexton Vineyard is in one of the most revered pockets of the Valley. Being well up the Range's north-facing slopes, topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow gravelly loams above a tough, rocky clay base. Bunch yields set naturally low in this environment, resulting in intensely flavoured fruit with high skin-to-juice ratio. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe clonal selection of Pinot Noir off this site includes the G5V15 clone, which responds well to the warmer conditions and sunlight exposure to produce juicy and plush wines. The Pinot Noir produced from Sexton have a lovely texture, with dark cherries and plums, sweet spice notes and youthful tannins.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe predominant Chardonnay clones are GinGin and Mendoza which produce hens and chickens (large and small grapes on the same bunch), which results in high white tannin and phenolic content to balance the citrus flavours.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocation: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWarramate Ranges, Gruyere            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 130-210 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e North facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 30 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 1997                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e Grey clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e Gingin, Mendoza, 277, 96, 76, 78     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePinot Noir Clones: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMV6, G5V15, Abel, POM5, D\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\" alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843374833,"sku":"","price":79.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1696805148"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015","title":"Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhilip Rich Top 20 Wines of 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Hooleydooley. If ya like ya pinot noir, and well, most of us do, then ya gunna like the Giant Steps 2015s. Perfect storm. How good are these vineyards? How good is Steve Flamsteed and co?\"  Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Haze of cherry, sweet maraschino cherry, faint fennel, sniff of briar, exotic spice, touch of vanilla bean, but sweet as all that sounds, it's more amaro sour-sweet than anything. And superb. Such volume of perfume too. Palate has an almost tactile white pepper dusting, feathery and suede tannins build that tactile feel, the wine draws long on an sleek elastic band of juicy, bright cherry fruit, that spice, glossy acidity. It sits in palate even, fine, long, restrained, finessed. Cashmere on the tongue. Far out.\"  Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe\u003cspan\u003e Sexton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Vineyard\u003c\/span\u003e is located at \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGruyere\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein the Lower Yarra Valley and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewas \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eplanted in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e1997\u003c\/span\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003eThe 30 hectare vineyard is at an elevation of 130-210 metres, has north facing slopes on g\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003erey clay soils \u003c\/span\u003eand is planted to \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMV6, G5V15, POM5 and D clones.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit for the 2015 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir was hand picked and fermentation occurs in 4000L open oak vats and 5000L open fermenters.  It is 40% whole bunch and sees 11 months in used (75%) and new (25%) French Oak with no filtration at bottling. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA regular in my annual top 20, Giant Steps’ winemaker Steve Flamsteed was justifiably named \u003c\/span\u003eGourmet Traveller Wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Winemaker of the Year in September. He made four single-vineyard pinots in 2015 and the combination of a relatively warm site in Coldstream and a cool year has resulted in a beautiful lower Yarra pinot. Fermented in 4000-litre wooden vats and with 40 per cent whole bunches, which you can barely detect, there are aromas of red and dark fruits together with some spice. The palate is concentrated, complex and balanced.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePhilip Rich, Australian Financial Review -  Top 20 Wines of 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Shares the superb colour of its siblings; here, generosity takes the stage with richness and tannins woven into the superabundant red and black fruits by invisible mending. A brilliant wine by whatever standards you may choose. Drink to 2027.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe most cerebral, layered, spicy and complex of the 2015 Giant Steps single-vineyard wines, this has a handy mix of savory and sweet aromas. There are cloves, chalky\/stony smells, saffron and a swirling array of rose-like fragrances. It's really engaging and gently herbal, opening up into warmed, peppery spices and some musky florals, too. The palate is cut with finesse and detail and is really engaging and structurally complex for a pinot. The tannins strike the gentlest of grainy textures through fine pastry-like layers of fruit. Meanwhile, hints of blood-orange flavors meet crunchy red cherries and wild raspberries. Elegant yet powerful. Superb — their best to date. Delicious enough to drink now, but you'd be mad not to give it 5+ years. There is much to come!\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Sexton is in the Warramatte Ranges. Low yields. This is all hand-picked fruit, 40% is whole bunch in the ferment. Fermentation is natural, spends 11 months in 75% used oak, 25% new. Strap in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHaze of cherry, sweet maraschino cherry, faint fennel, sniff of briar, exotic spice, touch of vanilla bean, but sweet as all that sounds, it's more amaro sour-sweet than anything. And superb. Such volume of perfume too. Palate has an almost tactile white pepper dusting, feathery and suede tannins build that tactile feel, the wine draws long on an sleek elastic band of juicy, bright cherry fruit, that spice, glossy acidity. It sits in palate even, fine, long, restrained, finessed. Cashmere on the tongue. Far out. Drink: 2016-2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePhilip Rich Top 20 Wines of 2016, Australian Financial Review\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSexton vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\" alt=\"Giant steps Sexton Vineyard\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsSextonvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689395930\"\u003eSexton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Vineyard  (Lower Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocated on the steep slopes of the Warramate Ranges, alongside the vineyards of iconic Yarra producers Yarra Yering and Coldstream Hills, the Sexton Vineyard is in one of the most revered pockets of the Valley. Being well up the Range's north-facing slopes, topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow gravelly loams above a tough, rocky clay base. Bunch yields set naturally low in this environment, resulting in intensely flavoured fruit with high skin-to-juice ratio. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe clonal selection of Pinot Noir off this site includes the G5V15 clone, which responds well to the warmer conditions and sunlight exposure to produce juicy and plush wines. The Pinot Noir produced from Sexton have a lovely texture, with dark cherries and plums, sweet spice notes and youthful tannins.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe predominant Chardonnay clones are GinGin and Mendoza which produce hens and chickens (large and small grapes on the same bunch), which results in high white tannin and phenolic content to balance the citrus flavours.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLocation\u003c\/span\u003e: \u003c\/strong\u003eWarramate Ranges, Gruyere            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 130-210 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e North facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 30 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 1997                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003eGrey clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e Gingin, Mendoza, 277, 96, 76, 78     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eMV6, G5V15, Abel, POM5, D\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\" alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" alt=\"\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843440369,"sku":"","price":89.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-2015.jpg?v=1696805062"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-wombat-creek-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Giant Steps Wombat Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Light, bright crimson-purple; red flowers and fruits with a continuous whole bunch-shot text of savoury, earthy, foresty notes threaded through the red fruits.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe Wombat Creek Vineyard is located at Gladysdale in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted in 1988\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewith the intention of producing base wine for sparkling production but over the years has been gradually transitioned to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for table wine. A\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003et 410 metres, is the highest altitude vineyard in the Yarra Valley, making it an ideal location for the production of extreme cool climate wines. The underlying red, ferrous based volcanic soil and rock produce a distinctively soft yet long and firm palate that contrasts with the finer palates seen from the nearby Applejack Vineyard (basalt based volcanic). The 16 hectare Wombat Creek\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e Vineyard, owned by Hand Picked Wines, is located on a north-east-facing slope and\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e is planted solely with the MV6 clone.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Gladysdale vineyard, originally for sparkling though the clone is MV6. Some whole bunch in the mix too. One of the more mature vineyards in the Yarra, early 1980s planting. Wombat Creek sounds like something off a 1980s Australian soap opera. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePretty, voluminous perfume, loaded with sweet red berry fruits, spiked with green herbs, undergrowth, briar, touch of truffle\/mushroom. Silky in the palate, great volume of flavour, squeakiness through the finish, mouth-watering too. Has good concentration, mouth perfume even, floats through its long finish. Superb wine, delicious drinking. Drink: 2018-2027+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the Upper Yarra Valley (the highest altitude vineyard in the Yarra Valley), 20% whole bunches on the base of the vat, the remainder destemmed on top, minimal plunging thus maximum carbonic maceration, 9 months maturation, gravity bottled. Like all the Giant Steps Pinots, not fined or filtered. Light, bright crimson-purple; red flowers and fruits with a continuous whole bunch-shot text of savoury, earthy, foresty notes threaded through the red fruits\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"ce42974\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWombat creek vineyard\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant steps Wombat Creek Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsWombatcreekvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689403277\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantStepsWombatcreekvineyard_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689403277\"\u003eWombat Creek\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Vineyard  (Upper Yarra Valley)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce42974 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ce42974\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWombat Creek Vineyard is the highest altitude vineyard in the Yarra Valley, making it an ideal location for the production of extreme cool-climate wines. A light covering of snow is not uncommon in winter, when the vines are dormant, but the steep slopes allow frost to drain away and protect the tender shoots from freezing temperatures in spring.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard was originally planted in 1988 with the intention of producing base wine for sparkling production but over the years has transitioned to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for table wine. The underlying ferrous (red) based volcanic soil and rock produce a distinctively soft yet long and firm palate, that contrasts with the finer palates seen from the nearby Applejack Vineyard (basalt based volcanic). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis vineyard produces wonderfully exotic Pinot Noir, with a savoury and spicey side.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom the crest of the highest hill at Wombat Creek, steep slopes of vines stretch to the north. At the bottom of the vineyard there is a spring-fed pond covered in water lilies; this is the source of Wombat Creek, which trickles through the hills, joining Hoddles Creek a few kilometres to the north-west and ultimately emptying into the meandering Yarra River. To the north, looking over dense Mountain Ash forest and folds of green hills dotted with wombat holes, the blue horizon is dominated by the saddleback ridge of Mt Donna Buang. The surrounding forest, fern gullies and creeks are home to platypus, lyrebirds, kangaroos, wallabies and, of course, wombats.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLocation:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGladysdale            \u003cstrong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 410 metres          \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAspect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: North-east facing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: 16 hectares                    \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanted\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e 1988                       \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e Red clay loam\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChardonnay \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e: I10V1     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ePinot Noir Clones\u003c\/span\u003e: \u003c\/strong\u003eMV6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Gint steps Vineyard Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantstepsVineyardmap_PNG_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390532\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giantstepsvineyardheading_1024x1024.jpg?v=1689390756\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843604209,"sku":"","price":79.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-wombat-creek-vineyard-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1696807495"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-yarra-valley-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The intensity of the aromas and flavours unfolding with the first sip stop you in your tracks. The whole bunch component is evident, but not dominant, simply one of many factors in shaping the flavour and texture of this lovely wine.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Yarra Valley range is made from handpicked fruit from all of Giant Step's estate vineyards - Sexton, Applejack, Primavera, Swallowfield, Wombat Creek and Tarraford Vineyards. The wines are produced using indigenous yeasts, gravity-flow winemaking, and minimal fining and filtration. This approach produces highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2017 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir was hand picked, wild yeast open-fermented with 20% whole bunches and matured in French oak (10% new, 90% older) for 7 months.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Wild yeast open-fermented with 20% whole bunches, matured for 7 months in French oak (10% new), gravity bottled. Very good colour; the intensity of the aromas and flavours unfolding with the first sip stop you in your tracks. The whole bunch component is evident, but not dominant, simply one of many factors in shaping the flavour and texture of this lovely wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by 2037.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to full red\/purple hue with a charming strawberry, raspberry aroma, fruit-driven and straightforward but very aromatic. \u003c\/span\u003eNice wine: deliciously pinoty and fruity, oak taking a back-seat, and tannins well moderated. Sweet red fruits fill the palate. A young but very stylish pinot. Extreme value. Drink 2018-2028.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 93 points\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843669745,"sku":"","price":49.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/giant-steps-yarra-valley-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1696809652"},{"product_id":"giant-steps-yarra-valley-syrah-2015","title":"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Syrah 2015","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps is recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They also make some very smart shiraz - the 2015 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Syrah being a case in point. The winery was established in \u003c\/span\u003e1998\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, one year after founder Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce wines of purity and finesse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The 27yo vines are in full flower, this joining a distinguished band of Yarra Valley shirazes of the highest quality from vines planted in the '70s and '80s. It is full-bodied in the best sense, simply thanks to the intensity of the black fruit, spice, pepper and licorice symphony of flavours. I will have been gone for generations before this wine calls time.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Yarra Valley range is made from handpicked fruit from all of Giant Step's estate vineyards - Sexton, Applejack, Primavera, Swallowfield, Wombat Creek and Tarraford Vineyards. The wines are produced using indigenous yeasts, gravity-flow winemaking, and minimal fining and filtration. This approach produces highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Yarra Valley Syrah comes from the Sexton and Tarraford Vineyards. The Syrah is predominantly the Red Dog 67 clone that was propagated from their original block 2 vines – that clone is unique to Tarraford and carries a special perfume. 95% whole bunch fermentation in a single 4000l open French oak vat, light plunging, matured in French puncheons (new and used) for 18 months; 300 dozen made.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFull, rich crimson-purple; the 27yo vines are in full flower, this joining a distinguished band of Yarra Valley shirazes of the highest quality from vines planted in the '70s and '80s. It is full-bodied in the best sense, simply thanks to the intensity of the black fruit, spice, pepper and licorice symphony of flavours. I will have been gone for generations before this wine calls time. Gold medal Yarra Valley Wine Show '16.\u003c\/span\u003e Drink by 2055.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDeep purple\/red colour, the aromas peppery, spicy and stemmy from whole-bunch ferments. The palate is full-bodied and powerful, concentrated for a Yarra shiraz and well-structured, with abundant tannins. Great palate extension and persistence. A very smart wine indeed. Drink: 2016–2035.\u003c\/span\u003e\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"You like Yarra Valley shiraz? Here's a belter. It is a 'must buy' if this is your thing. Look what we have here. A Yarra Valley syrah grown on the Sexton and Tarraford vineyards. 40% whole bunches. Open fermented. Matured in 500 litre puncheons. From a fabulous vintage and at the hand of Steve Flamstead, one of Australia's best winemakers. It has all the right credentials and yet it tastes even better than it sounds. It is just the ticket. Cherry plum, crushed dry leaves, the most blessed slow-crash of tannin, herbage and black pepper, all carried along on a river of silk. Eucalypt and clove characters play side roles. The sleeves of this wine are folded immaculately. It's neat, tidy, contained. But it's pure and beautiful; it sits in the glass with its heart wide open.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGold Medal - 2016 Yarra Valley Wine Show\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiantSteps_1024x1024.jpg?v=1670278917\" alt=\"Giant Steps Yarra Valley Range\"\u003e In 1997 Phil Sexton arrived in the Yarra Valley in search of ideal sites to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of purity and finesse. He was looking for sites with altitude, aged soils, slopes of exposure, regular rainfall and cool to cold nighttime temperatures and a gentle breeze off the protecting mountain ranges. The Giant Steps winery was established one year later in 1998.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus is on the production of high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety. Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single vineyards comprise the Sexton Vineyard in the Lower Yarra and the Applejack Vineyard in the Upper Yarra (both owned by Giant Steps), the \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTarraford Vineyard in the Lower Yarra under long-term lease, \u003c\/span\u003ethe Primavera Vineyard in the Upper Yarra under long-term supervised contract and the Wombat Creek Vineyard owned by Hand Picked Wines. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn addition, Giant Steps produce a Yarra Valley range of wines made from handpicked fruit from their estate vineyards. They are highly expressive wines, true to the regional characteristics of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Giant Steps wines have received global acclaim and are now recognized as a global benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. \u003c\/span\u003eSince 2003 Giant Steps wines have been awarded 34 trophies and over 100 gold medals at major international and domestic wine shows and has been named one of the Top 100 Wineries in the World by US Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Magazine for each of the last six years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Step's success is due in no small part to Steve Flamsteed, Chief Winemaker since 2003. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSteve had previously worked for Leeuwin Estate (1999 – 2002) and the Hardy Wine Company at their Yarra Burn Winery in the Yarra Valley (2002 – 2003). Steve was named Gourmet Traveller Wine 'Winemaker of the Year' in 2016. \"\u003c\/span\u003eSteve Flamsteed is a man of many talents with a finely tuned palate, an instinctive flair for winemaking and fastidious attention to detail. This shows particularly in the stunning single-vineyard chardonnays and pinots of Giant Steps: distinctive wines that reflect their sites and glow with impeccable finesse.\"  Peter Forrestal, chairman of judges, Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanie Chester joined Giant Steps as Head of Winemaking and Viticulture in 2021. She came to Giant Steps from Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where she was Head Winemaker. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 2014, Melanie became the youngest ever scholar selected for The Len Evans Tutorial. In 2015, she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine, and in 2018, Melanie was recognized by Young Gun of Wine as the People's Choice award winner for favourite winemaker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps was acquired by the Jackson Family in 2020. The Jackson Family own a vast stable of wineries in California (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Monterey County, Santa Barbara and Oregon), Australia (Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale), Chile, France, Italy and South Africa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843702513,"sku":"","price":39.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giant-Steps-Yarra-Valley-Syrah-2015.jpg?v=1696809943"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-hill-top-single-vineyard-syrah-2012","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Hill Top Single Vineyard Syrah 2012","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. \u003c\/span\u003eAs the name suggests, the 'Hill Top' Syrah is made from Shiraz grown at the highest point of Helen’s Hill. The vines are exposed to the hottest temperatures on the property, allowing them to thrive. The result is \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea cool climate Syrah with elegance and power, \u003c\/span\u003ean iron fist in a velvet glove.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The wine speaks of cooler climate Shiraz clearly, a touch of herbal complexity, a medium bodied, perky acidity, and in all that feels very drinkable, almost refreshing, but still gives a good hit of spicy red fruit. Trim and supple. Like this.\"  Mike Bennie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"A wine of great length and flavour, that is complex and perfectly balanced. Imposing. To quote James Halliday: 'It is a perfect example of how much power cool-grown shiraz can generate.' Will last another decade at least.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Munday, Canterbury Wines - 95 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★  \u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e(Tasted Jun 2022)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The wine speaks of cooler climate Shiraz clearly, a touch of herbal complexity, a medium bodied, perky acidity, and in all that feels very drinkable, almost refreshing, but still gives a good hit of spicy red fruit. Trim and supple. Like this. 13.2%.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, Wine Business Monthly (WBM) – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Single vineyard syrah \/ shiraz from quality Yarra Valley producer Helen's Hill. I guess you could call it light-ish, though it has good colour and in general the wine makes its presence felt. It's certainly not thick or dense or syrupy though; it's more water-based than alcohol-based. It tastes of cherries, redcurrant, snapped twigs and beautifully integrated sweetly-spiced oak. Tannin is fine, grainy, gently autumnal.  This should drink and mature well over the medium term at least\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2015-2021+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front – 91+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Canterbury Wines\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Alan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specialize in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847306993,"sku":"","price":42.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/helen_s-hill-estate-hill-top-single-vineyard-syrah-2012.jpg?v=1696897345"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Long Walk Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. The 'Long Walk' Pinot Noir is made primarily from carefully selected rows in the largest block of Pinot Noir on the property. Each of the 120 rows is 520 metres long, so when tending the vines one is in for a long walk! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eComprising three clones, all from old vines; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMV6 forms the backbone of the wine and is complimented by D4V5 Pommard clone and Dijon Clone 115.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A rich and deep pinot, with satsuma plum the dominant player promising much for the future as spicy notes build. The tannin and oak management is spot on.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Aromas of dark cherry, cloves and spice are complemented with typical earthy tones that Yarra Valley pinot noir is famous for producing. On the palate, this wine displays the hallmarks of a warmer Yarra vintage. Ample fruits of dark cherry and spiced plums take the lead, fine tannins and French oak humming along in the background to create length and structure.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A deeply coloured blend of MV6, Pommard and Dijon 115 clones. Destemmed, crushed, open-fermented, 10 days on skins, matured for 9 months in French puncheons (30% new). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA rich and deep pinot, with satsuma plum the dominant player promising much for the future as spicy notes build. The tannin and oak management is spot on. Drink by 2032.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Allan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specialize in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847372529,"sku":"","price":36.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/helen_s-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2019.jpg?v=1696897682"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2012","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Long Walk Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. The 'Long Walk' Pinot Noir is made primarily from carefully selected rows in the largest block of Pinot Noir on the property. Each of the 120 rows is 520 metres long, so when tending the vines one is in for a long walk! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eComprising three clones, all from old vines; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMV6 forms the backbone of the wine and is complimented by D4V5 Pommard clone and Dijon Clone 115.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe last nine vintages of the Long Walk Pinot Noir (vintages 2012 to 2021) have all received a Special Value Star \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ein the Halliday W\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eine Companion. The Long Walk must surely rival the Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir as the best value Pinot Noir to come out of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Medium weight, plums and cherries, good acid cut and attack with fine but firm powdery tannin framing up the wine beautifully. Muscular and intense, but not without charm. Long finish. Ooomph and chutzpah. Carries it off with style.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The colour is even deeper than that of its Ingram Rd sibling; it is packed with luxurious dark cherry and plum fruit running in an unbroken stream through the bouquet, palate, finish and aftertaste. Exceptional pinot noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, and will hit the heights over the next 5+ years. Drink by 2022.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points and Special Value Wine \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Proprietor Allan Nalder is, and I think rightfully, excited by the contribution his Pommard clones are making to Helen's Hill Pinot Noir. Dark cherries, musk, spice and vanilla wood – fetching sort of earthy minerality here too. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMedium weight, plums and cherries, good acid cut and attack with fine but firm powdery tannin framing up the wine beautifully. Muscular and intense, but not without charm. Long finish. Ooomph and chutzpah. Carries it off with style. Drink: 2014-2020+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Allan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specialize in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847405297,"sku":"","price":49.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/helen_s-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2012.jpg?v=1696897627"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2010","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Long Walk Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. The Long Walk Pinot Noir is made primarily from carefully selected rows in the largest block of Pinot Noir on the property. Each of the 120 rows is 520 meters long, so when tending the vines one is in for a long walk! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe last nine vintages of the Long Walk Pinot Noir (vintages 2012 to 2021) have all received a Special Value Star \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003ein the Halliday W\u003c\/span\u003eine Companion. The Long Walk must surely rival the Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir as the best value Pinot Noir to come out of the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Estate-grown MV6, 113 and 114 clone grapes have come together in a top vintage to provide a pinot that has both depth and length to its display of dark plum and cherry fruit, French oak having its say, as do fine tannins - all in tune with each other.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Strong, clear red-purple; estate-grown MV6, 113 and 114 clone grapes have come together in a top vintage to provide a pinot that has both depth and length to its display of dark plum and cherry fruit, French oak having its say, as do fine tannins - all in tune with each other\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"We headed into this tasting expecting to be presented with the best examples of Pinot ever made in Australia, vintage fluctuations aside. We asked producers to send in wines that they were currently selling at their cellar door, so most of the wines were the 2010 vintage with the oldest being 2008. The Panel was presented with 59 wines and, as expected, most of these were from the aforementioned regions: the Yarra Valley, Mornington and Tasmania, as well as Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAs expected, Pinots from the cooler climates dominated the tasting. Of the top 20, eight were from the Yarra Valley, five each from Tasmania and the Mornington Peninsula, while Gippsland and Geelong were also represented. Each of these areas showed distinct regional characters. Furthermore, the variance of sub-sites within regions was reflected in the subtle differences between the 2010 vintage of the Yarra, such as \u003c\/span\u003ethe lovely feminine feel of the Helen's Hill, compared with the stalky briar lift of the Yering Station and the leafy herbaceousness of the Punt Road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e2010 Helen's Hill: Loved by the Panel for its subtleness and texture. Ripe, floral and fruit driven with a bright strawberry fruit core on the mid palate, plush and juicy on the back palate. Beautifully balanced with fine tannins and divine smoky oak, superb length and brightness.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWine Selectors Tasting Panel and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBill Downie – Ranked 2\u003csup data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003end\u003c\/sup\u003e out of 59 pinot noirs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Allan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847470833,"sku":"","price":45.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/helen_s-hill-estate-long-walk-single-vineyard-pinot-noir-2010.jpg?v=1696897413"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-single-vineyard-cabernets-2008","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Single Vineyard Cabernets 2008","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. The Single Vineyard Cabernets is a classic Bordeaux blend of \u003c\/span\u003eapproximately 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 12% Cab Franc, 7% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlanted at the top of the Coldstream vineyard on rocky terrain, the Cabernet vines grow where there was once an apple orchard. The rocky terrain provides a tough home for the vines and a unique minerality to the soil that comes through in the fruit they produce. This block is known for producing low-yielding crops of great intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"An unusually full-bodied Bordeaux blend by Yarra Valley standards, yet the depths of the black fruits are not heavy, and the tannins are precisely structured and balanced. This is a certain 40+ year cellar proposition.\"  James Halliday \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Deep ruby red. Dark berry fruits and spicy cloves on the nose. Blackberries, dark plums, chocolate and cloves, smooth tannins and a rich palate weight. All fruit is grown on our single vineyard site and hand picked at harvest to ensure that all fruit is picked at optimal ripeness. The fruit is de-stemmed and crushed into our open-top fermenters to undergo primary fermentation. (approximately 6-8 days) The juice then spends up to 6 weeks in the fermenters going through post-ferment maceration to extract maximum color and tannins from skins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAfter fermentation is complete, the skins are pressed off and the juice settled in tank for 48 hours. The juice is then \"racked” off to French Oak barrels (50% New, 50% old) for full malolactic fermentation which takes approximately 4 months. After malo fermentation is complete the wine is 'racked' to tank, the barrels are cleaned and the wine is returned to the same barrels for final barrel maturation (18 months). Wine is aged in barrel and bottle for a total period of 4 years before release.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Deep, dense red-purple; a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot; an unusually full-bodied Bordeaux blend by Yarra Valley standards, yet the depths of the black fruits are not heavy, and the tannins are precisely structured and balanced. This is a certain 40+ year cellar proposition\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. 13.8% alc. Drink 2050.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Alan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specialize in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847503601,"sku":"","price":48.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_s-Hill-Estate-Single-Vineyard-Cabernets-2008.jpg?v=1696897757"},{"product_id":"helens-hill-estate-single-vineyard-cabernets-2006","title":"Helen's Hill Estate Single Vineyard Cabernets 2006","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelen's Hill is a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley. The Single Vineyard Cabernets is a classic Bordeaux blend of \u003c\/span\u003eapproximately 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 12% Cab Franc, 7% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlanted at the top of the Coldstream vineyard on rocky terrain, the Cabernet vines grow where there was once an apple orchard. The rocky terrain provides a tough home for the vines and a unique minerality to the soil that comes through in the fruit they produce. This block is known for producing low-yielding crops of great intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHas good thrust and vibrancy to the cornucopia of fruit flavours from the five Bordeaux varieties; supple tannins and integrated oak.\u003c\/span\u003e\"  James Halliday \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHas good thrust and vibrancy to the cornucopia of fruit flavours from the five Bordeaux varieties; supple tannins and integrated oak.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 92 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Helen's Hill Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_sHill_1024x1024.jpg?v=1692695056\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, the Nalder and McIntosh families purchased a 150 acre property in Coldstream with some of the finest views of the Yarra Valley and replanted the existing orchard as a vineyard. Today 110 acres are under vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. It's a story of two families with a shared love of farming and wine. Having been dragged away from the land to careers in medicine and finance, they always yearned to return to a life they loved. So when they inspected a property now known as Helen's Hill Estate in 1996, they decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe former owner John Frazer, a businessman working in Collins Street, proposed marriage in the 1950s to a young lady by the name of Helen. Helen agreed but on one condition; John had to buy a farm as Helen longed for a life on the land. John bought land in the Yarra Valley and the couple lived on the farm and started a family. Tragically, Helen was diagnosed with cancer and passed away, leaving John and two very young children to carry on. While showing Alan Nalder and Andrew McIntosh around the estate some 40 years later, John recalled a number of incidents – \"this is where Helen bogged the tractor\", \"this is where Helen planted our first apple tree\" and \"this is where Helen…\" At the completion of the inspection when they were standing atop the highest hill enjoying the views of the Yarra Valley, John recalled that in her last weeks Helen would love nothing more than to sit on this hill and look out over the sweeping farmland. He said, \"This was Helen's Hill.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new owners had a Helen in the family too, so the name 'Helen's Hill' seemed like the perfect name for their vineyard and winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen's Hill specialize in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 65 acres of pinot noir are planted to MV6, 114, 115 and a Pommard clone, while 16 acres of chardonnay are planted to PEN58, P76 and Mendoza clones. In addition, there are smaller plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The vineyard has a number of hills running through the property with different soil types and micro climates, which allow the different grape varieties to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's no coincidence we are where we are. We scoured Coldstream in the Yarra Valley to find the perfect site. We were looking for three things - hills, microclimates and the iconic Yarra Valley soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of these three factors is why we chose Helen's Hill to put down our roots, as we knew this climate would make our wines truly interesting and unique to others in the region. To this day, these factors define us and the wines we produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe French call it terroir. We call it Helen's Hill.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHelen's Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896847536369,"sku":"","price":42.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Helen_s-Hill-Estate-Single-Vineyard-Cabernets-2006_fb01d9b2-6e0d-44a8-b44c-b354714b3eac.jpg?v=1700624967"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2020","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, and year out that seriously overdeliver at the price point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir is their flagship \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003epinot noir. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003eThis wine is only released in vintages when Franco considers the quality to be outstanding. It's produced in small quantities, is of world class standard and is much sought after by pinot noir aficionados. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Crystal clear. The scented, gently spicy bouquet leads with cherries and forest fruits, plum tucked in behind, progressively gathering impact with repeated visits to the glass. The palate likewise unfolds its savoury, spicy array of small forest-floor wild strawberry fruits.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The only downside to the 2020 vintage was yields. Very small crops due to poor weather at flowering resulted in a loss of yield of about 70%. Great for the wine as it gives it concentration and power in a cooler year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Pinot Noir for this wine comes from our Top Paddock Vineyard. There are 28 rows of pinot planted in this block, which is West facing and sloping to the South. The fact that it slopes down to the South is really important as it enables us to include about 25% whole clusters to the fermentation. South facing blocks tend to be a bit cooler, and ripening takes a little longer hence the stalks have a chance to regain ripeness without imparting any green flavours on the wine.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePinot Noir from this block has been treated separately since 2005, when we highlighted that the rows produce slightly different fruit than the remainder of the vineyard. With the vineyard in balance, we simply shoot thin around the crown and take off any multiple shoots. The vines would normally crop about 1.3 kilograms per vine.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the winery, this has the same treatment as the Estate Pinot Noir except for the inclusion of 25% whole bunches. This makes the tannins a little finer and gives structure to the wine for further ageing. The wine spends eighteen months in cask. The wine is not filtered, not fined, or stabilized before bottling.\"  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFranco D'Anna, Winemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Crystal clear. The scented, gently spicy bouquet leads with cherries and forest fruits, plum tucked in behind, progressively gathering impact with repeated visits to the glass. The palate likewise unfolds its savoury, spicy array of small forest-floor wild strawberry fruits\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by: 2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"I guess it fits into the 'pretty red-fruited' category though there are ample bass notes here and there's plenty of toasty, smoky, chicory-like influence too. Complexity, it has plenty. Red cherries, both stewed and fresh, with Campari-like herb influences before cedar wood, sweet\/earthen spice and assorted roasted nuts. The tannin profile of this wine, ultra fine-grained and assertive at once, is about as good as it gets – not only does it tie everything together but it somehow helps to extend the palate yet more. This is not an obvious wine, it takes time to build and unfold, but it's a top-notch one\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Tasted: Sept 21; Alcohol: 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2022-2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Crushed herbs, orange peel, raspberry, strawberry and spice, fennel too, offering a distinctly Italianate alpine character. There's some toasted oak here, and almond character, bright orange tang and sappy feel, a pleasing bitterness, with cool fresh acidity, and pumice stone grip of tannin. Finish is cool, long with a sappy\/smoked paprika thing happening. In some respects, quite an unusual wine for Hoddles, though the quality is excellent. Tasted: Sept 21; Alcohol: 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2022-2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896850321649,"sku":"","price":68.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2020.jpg?v=1697000532"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2019","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, and year out that seriously overdeliver at the price point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir is their flagship \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epinot noir. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan mce-data-marked=\"1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis wine is only released in vintages when Franco considers the quality to be outstanding. It's produced in small quantities, is of world class standard and is much sought after by pinot noir aficionados. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This has a sense of detail on the nose with a sappy and spicy feel and bright, red-cherry fruit. The palate is so focused and concentrated with a clear red-cherry theme. Long, focused tannins and a lively, composed and vibrant finish. Very impressive.\"  Nick Stock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2019 1ER Pinot Noir will go down as one of the classics, with lots of perfume and structure. This will age gracefully for 10 years plus. The 1ER Pinot Noir always comes from a block on our Top Paddock vineyard called 'SRM'. This block faces West but runs down to the South. This is the only block that sees the inclusion of around 20-25% whole bunches in the ferment. I'm not looking for whole bunches characters in the wine but more what it does to the tannins. Normally it should make the wines finer and the tannins purer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wine spent the majority of its life in Foudre, then around December it was transferred to seasoned casks until March. We do this to open the wine up as being in large format oak the wines can close down for a long period of time. Around April, this wine was then transferred to tank to spend another winter in the cellar. The wine is then bottled without filtration or fining.\"  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFranco D'Anna, Winemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis has a sense of detail on the nose with a sappy and spicy feel and bright, red-cherry fruit. The palate is so focused and concentrated with a clear red-cherry theme. Long, focused tannins and a lively, composed and vibrant finish. Very impressive. Drink over the next six years.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNick Stock, JamesSuckling.com – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Dark red fruit, spice, earth, mint and dried flowers. It's medium-bodied, but dense and firm in tannin, cherries and dried herb mainly, a bit of gravel and bright sappy and 'mineral' feeling acidity. Lot's of grip and oomph, though not heavy. Spice and perfume bobs up on a firm long finish. Needs a bit of extra time this vintage\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Tasted: Sept 20; Alcohol: 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2022-2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"At first, this seems richly fruited with soused cherries and plums. Be patient. The savoury elements kick in and take over the lead: smoky reduction, Angostura bitters, charry oak and textural, tooth-coating tannins, yet there's detail within. Plenty of layers to this, making it a complex and compelling wine. Drink by 2032.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896850387185,"sku":"","price":74.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2019.jpg?v=1697000447"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, and year out that seriously overdeliver at the price point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir is their flagship \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003epinot noir. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003eThis wine is only released in vintages when Franco considers the quality to be outstanding. It's produced in small quantities, is of world class standard and is much sought after by pinot noir aficionados. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Single block pinot noir from one of Australia's best pinot noir producers. From a good\/great year. It's a light, elegant wine, sinewy is the word, though it has the kind of insistence that would win it an election. This is a peacock's tail of a wine if there ever was one, all the forces marshalled in order through the mainstay off the palate before launching the real and decisive attack through the finish. Drinking it is like watching the launch of a satellite, to keep the metaphors rolling; you count down through the palate and then watch it boom. Let's just say, it has cashed in on the excellence of the vintage, and is remarkable both for its quality and for its value.\"  Campbell Mattinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Spends 6 months longer in oak than the standard label, has approx 35% new oak with firm tannin, bright floral and red berry nose. In the winery, this has the same treatment as the Estate Pinot Noir except for the inclusion of twenty per cent whole bunches. This makes the tannins a little more finer and gives structure to the wine for further aging. The wine spends eighteen months in cask. The wine is not filtered, not fined, or stabilized before bottling.\"  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFranco D'Anna, Winemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This is the standard-bearer for Hoddles Creek's estate-grown pinot noirs. Bright crimson-purple hue of moderate depth; the perfumed bouquet has spice, hints of violets (unexpected so soon, but don't complain), cherry and plum, a gathering replayed on the stage of the palate which is wonderfully long\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by: 2030. Alcohol: 13.2%. Drink by: 2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points and Top 100 Wines for 2018 and Special Value Wine \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e ★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Single block pinot noir from one of Australia's best pinot noir producers. From a good\/great year. 25% whole bunches. It's a light, elegant wine, sinewy is the word, though it has the kind of insistence that would win it an election. This is a peacock's tail of a wine if there ever was one, all the forces marshalled in order through the mainstay off the palate before launching the real and decisive attack through the finish. Drinking it is like watching the launch of a satellite, to keep the metaphors rolling; you count down through the palate and then watch it boom. Let's just say, it has cashed in on the excellence of the vintage, and is remarkable both for its quality and for its value\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Alcohol: 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2021 - 2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Large format oak for six months and then barriques. A winter in tank to finish. The spicy and fragrant playfulness is exaggerated with a portion of whole bunches used in the fermentation. The deep-set palate delivers an exceptionally long, smooth and supple layer of tannins, carrying long and deep into the finish. Stunning tannin quality here.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Nick Stock - 94\/95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896850419953,"sku":"","price":89.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1697000356"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2014","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir 2014","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, and year out that seriously overdeliver at the price point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Pinot Noir is their flagship \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003epinot noir. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003eThis wine is only released in vintages when Franco considers the quality to be outstanding. It's produced in small quantities, is of world class standard and is much sought after by pinot noir aficionados. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Stylish and convincing, red and purple fruits on the bouquet taking immediate control of the vibrant palate which swirls around the tip of the tongue, building layers as it progresses through to the tangy, lively finish. The whole bunch tannins are the touchstone of the wine.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hand-picked, 20% whole bunches, 80% destemmed (not crushed), 24 hours cold soak in open fermenters, 7 days post-ferment maceration, matured in French barriques (35% new) for 12 months, followed by 5 months in tank. Stylish and convincing, red and purple fruits on the bouquet taking immediate control of the vibrant palate which swirls around the tip of the tongue, building layers as it progresses through to the tangy, lively finish. The whole bunch tannins are the touchstone of the wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by: 2024.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 96 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"You'd rarely go wrong with Hoddles 1er wines, though some years it's the Chardonnay, and others the Pinot Noir that's the star of the show. And this year?  Pours a little cloudy in the glass, not that there's anything wrong with that, just sayin'. Cherries and raspberries, sap and spice, certainly has an autumnal lilt with humus and a gentle smokiness, and oak adds a layer of cinnamon and vanilla perfume. Medium bodied, mineral feel with firm slaty tannin, clean acidity, raspberry flavour and pencilly oak in support. Finish is very good, with layers of tannin unfurling, and well etched acidity stretching it out. You can go for it now, but its best days are ahead of it\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Alcohol : 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink : 2018 - 2028+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A smooth, sumptuous and velvety Yarra pinot whose deeply floral and faintly earthy perfume of black and red cherries and sweet cedary oak precedes a luscious, mouthfilling palate of medium to full body. Deep layers of juicy cherry\/dark plum fruit knit tightly with fresh, polished oak and a hint of meatiness, all supported by a fine but firmish spine of gentle tannins. It finishes with genuine length and persistence. Excellent value\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e!”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver - 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896850485489,"sku":"","price":92.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-1er-pinot-noir-2014.jpg?v=1696918023"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2021","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2022\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This release jumps out at you. It's fragrant and lively, blessed with bell-clear varietal fruit flavour, blossomy, tannic and sure. Woodsmoke and oranges, red cherry and woodsy spice, mint and meat. It feels dry and tight but there's enough here to suggest generosity; this release feels more eager to please than usual, and yet it still feels tight, and the lines of acidity are perfectly threaded. In short, if ever there was a no-brainer Hoddles Creek pinot release, this one is it.\"  Campbell Mattinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Red berries and dark cherry dominate the nose, firm mid palate tannins lead to pleasing acidity on the back. All fruit is hand-picked in the morning and immediately de-stemmed with no crushing. In tank the fruit will have a small addition of sulphur. Some batches were left to cold soak for approximately 4-5 days, whilst others started fermentation immediately. Natural and cultured yeasts were used on different ferments. Pigage and delastage were used for cap management. Some ferments will undergo post maceration, depending on the tannin structure and the style of the wine. On completion of fermentation the wine was gently pressed and transferred to 30% new, 30% one year old and the balance in two and three year old oak, After 11 months of barrel maturation, the wine was assembled and bottled without filtration or fining.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eHoddles Creek Estate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2021 Hoddles Creek pinot release is simply sensational. Possessing a sweet core of cherry fruit, it has an impressive depth of flavour and is beautifully balanced with soft, fine grained tannins and balanced acidity. Beautifully varietal. \u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003eExceptional value for money.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  Nick Munday, Canterbury Wines - 96+ points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVivid deep crimson hue. Cherry, raspberry, strawberry all populate the intense but perfectly created pinot, each reflected in a Catherine wheel of pinot noir essence. Hoddles Creek does it again and again. Australia's best value pinot? Drink by 2031.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 96 points and Top 100 Wines of 2022 and Special Value Wine \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir. I wrote the above, I should add, after having tasted the wine. Truth is that before I started tasting it I was a touch nervous; the Hoddles wines are released young, almost rudely so, and in general need a little time to both sort themselves out and reveal themselves properly; reviewing them when they're still super-young isn't the easiest task, oftentimes. But, alas, not so this year. This release jumps out at you. It's fragrant and lively, blessed with bell-clear varietal fruit flavour, blossomy, tannic and sure. Woodsmoke and oranges, red cherry and woodsy spice, mint and meat. It feels dry and tight but there's enough here to suggest generosity; this release feels more eager to please than usual, and yet it still feels tight, and the lines of acidity are perfectly threaded. In short, if ever there was a no-brainer Hoddles Creek pinot release, this one is it. Tasted: May 2022; Alcohol: 13.2%; Price: $25; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2022-2030.\" \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front - 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2022\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Canterbury Wines  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851075313,"sku":"","price":29.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2021.jpg?v=1718259281"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2020","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Strawberry and spice, almond, mint and floral perfume. Light and fresh, plenty of crunch and vivacity, a sappy feel, though flavour is ripe and emphatically red-fruited. Fine dusting of tannin, a slight earthiness, and a bright long finish offering bite and 'mineral' feel. Comes up in the glass very well, and I'd say it will perform really well with cellaring. Pure and classic styling. Very good. More to come.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"25yo vines; hand-picked, 100% whole bunch-fermented, 10 months in French oak (25% new). The floral bouquet offers red cherry\/berry fruit, spice and violets, the seamless palate adding nuances of forest and gossamer tannins to the expansive finish\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Price: $24.99; Alcohol: 13.2%; Drink to: 2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Strawberry and spice, almond, mint and floral perfume. Light and fresh, plenty of crunch and vivacity, a sappy feel, though flavour is ripe and emphatically red-fruited. Fine dusting of tannin, a slight earthiness, and a bright long finish offering bite and 'mineral' feel. Comes up in the glass very well, and I'd say it will perform really well with cellaring. Pure and classic styling. Very good. More to come\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Tasted: March 2021; Alcohol: 13.2%; Price: $25; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2022-2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 93+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium ruby-red colour with hint of purple at the rim. Just-crushed raspberries with rosemary herbal aromas. Intense berries on palate entry, with a brightening acidity that gives a lovely lift. As it flows into the middle of the tongue a fine grip of sinewy tannins firms up and focuses the long finish. Food will accentuate the detail here and cellaring would reward your patience. A remarkable value wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Price: $25.00; Alcohol: 13.2%; Drink: 2021 to 2032.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStuart Knox, The Real Review – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851108081,"sku":"","price":29.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2020.jpg?v=1697003171"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2019","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The bouquet and palate flow with black cherry\/berry fruits, violets and spices lurking in its depths. The palate has abundant power that will sustain the wine for years to come. The richness of the plush fruit looked better and better on retasting.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hand-picked and sorted, wild-fermented, 21 days on skins, 10 months in French oak (25% new). Deep colour; the bouquet and palate flow with black cherry\/berry fruits, violets and spices lurking in its depths. The palate has abundant power that will sustain the wine for years to come. The richness of the plush fruit looked better and better on retasting\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by 2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHalliday Wine Companion - 96 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Nose in glass, and first impression is that this is a great vintage for HCE Pinot. Darker fruit profile, but with raspberry in there too, plenty of spice and perfume of dried rose, some lead pencil and cedar happening. It's medium-bodied, savoury and fruit sweet, almost earthy, and packed with gravelly tannin and bright cherry acidity. The finish is long, spicy, dried herb and cherry-laden, beautiful tannin pushing it out. It puts me in mind of 2013 with its grip and deep fruit. It's bloody outstanding\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Tasted: April 2020; Alcohol: 13.2%; Price: $25; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2020-2030.”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 94+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851206385,"sku":"","price":32.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2019.jpg?v=1697003080"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2017","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2017","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fine, fragrant and deft Pinot Noir here, and all for just a tick over a lobster. Raspberry, cherry, a subtle earth and pencil thing, spice and vanilla. Medium-bodied, beautiful weight and precision, the delivery of flavour comes with a quiet confidence, fine graphite tannin, clear acidity, and satisfying length. Complete and sophisticated, yet still so young. Go on.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Multiple approaches to vinification have been repaid with exceptional drive, length and focus to its medium-bodied display of zesty, spicy small red fruits, its purity the mark of a glorious vintage, and a great site handled by an exceptional winemaker\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, Franco D'Anna. Drink by 2029.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 96 points and Top 100 Wines for 2018 and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Fine, fragrant and deft Pinot Noir here, and all for just a tick over a lobster. Raspberry, cherry, a subtle earth and pencil thing, spice and vanilla. Medium-bodied, beautiful weight and precision, the delivery of flavour comes with a quiet confidence, fine graphite tannin, clear acidity, and satisfying length. Complete and sophisticated, yet still so young. Go on\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Alcohol: 13.2%. Drink: 2019-2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium red\/purple colour. The bouquet is shy and slightly chaffy, with bold but not very varietal aromas, while the palate offers impressive depth of flavour and authentic cherry fruit. This has some weight and substance. And a sweet fruit core. A very good pinot that's a touch muted at present and just cries out for a little cellar time to mellow and build. Drink 2018 to 2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2018\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851239153,"sku":"","price":35.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2017.jpg?v=1697002900"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2016","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2016","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2017\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Hoddles Creek probably about the best $20 you can spend on Australian Pinot Noir. It's almost ludicrous. It's rosy, slightly peppery, red fruited, almost minerally, with spicy biscuit oak gently folded in. Light to medium bodied, fine sweep of emery board tannin, fine acidity, delicate flavour, bright and fine boned, with no annoying sweet and sour flavours, and a firm insistently tannic finish. Serious Pinot satisfaction here.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Don't be deceived by the relatively light colour, this is is a pinot that has the trappings you would expect from a $30 wine, not $21. It has a large core of red fruits wrapped in foresty\/spicy\/earthy tannins. Its future is gold-plated, and will richly repay cellaring. Drink by 2026.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHalliday Wine Companion - 95 points and Top 100 Wines of 2017 and Special Value Wine \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e ★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hoddles Creek probably about the best $20 you can spend on Australian Pinot Noir. It's almost ludicrous. It's rosy, slightly peppery, red fruited, almost minerally, with spicy biscuit oak gently folded in. Light to medium bodied, fine sweep of emery board tannin, fine acidity, delicate flavour, bright and fine boned, with no annoying sweet and sour flavours, and a firm insistently tannic finish. Serious Pinot satisfaction here.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Drink: 2018-2026.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eA pretty and fragrant pinot of lifted rose hip and red cherry and strawberry fruit. It's bright and tangy, celebrating the crunch of Upper Yarra acidity and a fine-ground, mineral tannin profile of confidence and integration. A splendid result for Hoddles Creek's toughest vintage yet, lifted by the inclusion of their 1er fruit.  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTyson Stelzer - 93 points and Top 20 Wines under $30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to deep red\/purple, excellent colour. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe bouquet is meaty, charcuterie and dark cherry-like, the palate similar with intense, refined, penetrative flavour and good length. Lovely pinot and great value. Drink 2017 to 2026.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review – 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"An inviting nose with warm strawberry aromas and a little cherry. Although the colour and palate are relatively light, the wine is packed with flavour, demonstrating yet again that colour is not an indicator of quality with pinot noir. What I love about this wine is that it screams 'pinot' with its fragrant berry fruit, herbal tones and gentle leafiness. Of course, it has just been released, so is looking quite primary right now, but will flesh out with time in bottle. That said, it is a mighty delicious drink right now, not to mention excellent value.\"  \u003cstrong\u003e Toni Paterson, The Real Review – 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2017\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine - Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTop 20 Wines under $30 - Tyson Stelzer \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851304689,"sku":"","price":37.5,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2016.jpg?v=1697002803"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2015","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2015","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2016\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Superb colour, both in hue and clarity; the perfumed bouquet of red berries and plums sets the scene for the perfectly balanced and very long palate, with a contrast between its juicy fruits and fine-grained tannins. This is a ridiculous bargain, whether enjoyed tonight or in a decade.\"  James Halliday \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Estate-grown, six clones separately fermented, 25% whole bunches, 21 days on skins, matured for 10 months in French oak (25% new). Superb colour, both in hue and clarity; the perfumed bouquet of red berries and plums sets the scene for the perfectly balanced and very long palate, with a contrast between its juicy fruits and fine-grained tannins. This is a ridiculous bargain, whether enjoyed tonight or in a decade\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by: 2025.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday - 96 points and Top 100 Wines for 2016 and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Pure raspberry fruit, with some cherry in support, spice, wet earth, pencils and an almost liquorice root perfume. Light to medium bodied, with a tense almost sinewy texture, mass of fine-point tannin, pencilly 'mineral' feel and the tannin and sweet damp earth singing on the finish. Can't recall a better release of the Estate Pinot Noir. Incredible sophistication for its price\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2018-2028+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Beautiful pale garnet colour. Sucker for that in Australian pinot noir. A little bit of neuro-linguistic programming as the sticker on the bottle does say 'looking for more tannin, better tannin', but this wine does present as mostly about simple, pure fruit and quality of tannin and texture. Those tannins are notable, glorious, etched with feathery detail, gently-gently builds to a light pucker that dries the palate perfectly. Superb. Flavours and aromas come with charisma of cherries, faint truffle, earth, light tobacco, but you go back for that palate feel, time and time again. Ludicrous price. Must buy. Must share\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2016-2025+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2016\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851337457,"sku":"","price":38.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2015.jpg?v=1697002683"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2014","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2014","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"As always, Hoddles Creek Estate pinot represents one of the great wine bargains of Australia. Just one sniff had me hooked. Smelling like a fistfull of squished cherry, strawberry and raspberry along with earth and spice, it's layered and complex. That's even before the flavour hits. It's smooth and bursting with elegant flavours similar to the aromas. There's energy, subtle structure and the berry flavours fan out. I've tasted over a decade of these wines and they age tremendously, too. Step right up.\"  Ben Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEstate-grown, with a miserable yield of half a tonne to the acre thanks to the vintage, yet still $19.99 - I shudder to think of the cost of production. As ever, a flawless wine, with clear varietal character, and none of the muscle-bound character one might expect from such a yield.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Quite simply, it's a beautiful wine to drink. Buy some, buy lots. It's such a charming drink. Ripe but savoury, spicy but rich with succulent appeal. One sip and you just want to settle back and go on with it. Cherries, dry leaves, some mint, the sweet smoky spiciness of oak. Sourness, just a touch. Pinot noir to the Nth degree. High value? Yes. Again\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2016-2023.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell Mattinson, The Wine Front – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"As always, Hoddles Creek Estate pinot represents one of the great wine bargains of Australia. Just one sniff had me hooked. Smelling like a fistfull of squished cherry, strawberry and raspberry along with earth and spice, it's layered and complex. That's even before the flavour hits. It's smooth and bursting with elegant flavours similar to the aromas. There's energy, subtle structure and the berry flavours fan out. I've tasted over a decade of these wines and they age tremendously, too. Step right up\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBen Thomas, The Weekly Review – The 24 Best Value Wines of 2015\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003eDeepish red\/purple hue; the bouquet is shy but clean and rich, with black cherry notes. It's full-bodied and loaded with soft tannins, a quite structured pinot. There's a trace of bitterness on the aftertaste. A very appealing wine: full, rich, textured and long. It has the muscle to age well.\u003c\/span\u003e  Drink: 2015–2024.\"\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBen Thomas, The Weekly Review – 24 Best Value Wines of 2015\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851402993,"sku":"","price":39.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2014.jpg?v=1697002585"},{"product_id":"hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2012","title":"Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir 2012","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2013\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This wine, as we all know at The Winefront, is a modern legend. One day, one fine day, far in the future, this label should win a medal for Services to Australian Pinot Noir.\"  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by winemaking guru Franco D'Anna, the team at Hoddles Creek produce wonderful pinot noir year in, year out that seriously overdeliver at the price-point. The wines are made from fruit grown on their family vineyard in the Upper Yarra Valley. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003eHoddles Creek Estate Pinot Noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is always perfumed, elegant, beautifully structured, varietal to the core and a ridiculous bargain. It is the gold standard for quality, affordable pinot noir. Back up the truck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This latest pinot is a cracker. It offers sour cherry varietal aroma, foresty notes and a whisper of gamey mystery. Silky and supple in the mouth, there's good intensity, yet it's light and fresh, with a gentle signature of very fine tannins, a sustained, fragrant finish, and an amazingly low price tag.\"  Ralph Kyte-Powell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Really happy with the 2012, think it's probably our best since 2008. Better balanced than 2010, but has the nerve of 2008. Agree, in twelve months it should be singing.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eFranco d'Anna, Winemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Fortuitously, in 1960, the D'Anna family had purchased a steeply forested 25ha property which in 1997 they set about planting. Almost overnight, glorious pinot noirs and chardonnays started to flow at prices that were irresistible – and still are.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Hand-picked early morning; destemmed and not crushed; some batches cold-soaked 4-5 days; some wild, some cultured ferments; 30% new French oak; 11 months maturation. Excellent crimson-purple; not filtered or fined, yet bright and clear; full of red and black cherry fruits, spice imminent; superfine but persistent tannins\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 94 points and Top 100 Wines of 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This latest pinot is a cracker. It offers sour cherry varietal aroma, foresty notes and a whisper of gamey mystery. Silky and supple in the mouth, there's good intensity, yet it's light and fresh, with a gentle signature of very fine tannins, a sustained, fragrant finish, and an amazingly low price tag\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRalph Kyte-Powell, Epicure Uncorked – 93 points \u0026amp; Wine of the Week\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"One of the most eagerly-awaited wines of the year, from a very good season. Hoddles Creek is a staple of an Australian pinot noir-lover's diet. This release needs time – and given it, it'll be cracking. For all its reserve, it still manages to ooze class\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Sheer texture. Cherry-plum, mint, sourness and spiciness. It's not a sweet crowd-pleaser and yet it's not challenging; it's just good pinot, straight up. For now or for later, though preferably a bit more for later. Good kick of flavour as you swallow. Crying out to be left alone for a bit. But really good. Alcohol : 13.2% Price : $18.99 Closure : Screwcap Drink : 2016 - 2021+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCampbell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Mattinson, The Wine Front – 92+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Friendly price, serious Pinot. It's not as immediately catchy as the 2012 Estate Chardonnay but after a stint in the cellar it may perform just as well. Or even better. Certainly needed three days to unveil itself. Opens a touch reductively, which isn't unusual for Hoddles Creek Pinot (or Yarra Valley Pinot for that matter) in its youth. Sweet and sour cherries with some darker fruits as well. Cinnamon, star anise and pepper. Sap, bark and undergrowth. It's medium-bodied with sensual satin-like texture and fairly assertive tannin. Some stony minerality, snapped twigs and a complexing herbal note on the back-palate. The finish is sustained and impressive. It just needs time. Big emphasis on the plus sign here\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Rating: 92+ Points; Very Good; Region: Yarra Valley; Alcohol: 13.2%; Closure: Screwcap; Price: $18.99.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Pringle, Wine Will Eat Itself – 92+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2013\u003cbr\u003eWine of the Week - Epicure Uncorked \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFranco \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eD'Anna\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Estate\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_78f83565-f820-494d-bf32-c5bf9fa5456d_1024x1024.png?v=1686276430\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1960 Tony and Bruno D'Anna purchased their future vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley at Hoddles Creek, chosen due to the presence of a small creek which provided a natural water supply. Ironically the property was bought completely without vineyards in mind – merely to grow vegetables and run some cattle – and well before the potential of the Yarra Valley as a wine region had re-emerged after a long hiatus. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was not until the nineties, when interest in small wineries exploded around the country, that the D'Annas made the logical leap to plant vines at Hoddles Creek. Mario Marson, who was viticulturalist and winemaker at Yarra icon Mount Mary, assisted in the planting of traditional varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the surprise addition of Pinot Blanc, which has turned out to be one of the star wines.  With their now highly successful Boccacio Cellars wine business behind them, all the pieces were in place to return to serious winemaking and again follow in the steps of their forefathers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Tony's son, Franco D'Anna, the path into the family business was almost a foregone conclusion. On finishing a commerce degree at the University of Melbourne he moved straight into a buying role for Boccacio Cellars but never quite settled. \"I did this for a few years but never loved it. I went out to the vineyard to help out after planting and never left. I loved being outside, not enclosed within four walls and working flexible hours. On the vineyard I'll start work at 5am and then go play golf in the afternoon. What's not to love about being a farmer?\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut Franco still lacked the technical knowledge and he knew it. So Franco went back to university – this time studying Applied Wine Science – which was followed by vintages with James Halliday at Coldstream Hills as well as overseas in Burgundy, Sicily and Piedmont. What those experiences have given him, combined with a lifetime surrounded by wine, is a unique take on classic Yarra Valley styles which centers on fruit quality. \"Without good fruit it's impossible to make good wine. I have four staff members, and we spend 90 percent of our time in the vineyard.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking is also relatively natural and in true Italian style concentrates as much on mouthfeel and structure as the more traditional Australian flavour-oriented wines. \"We are lucky enough to grow grapes in an area where additions aren't really necessary. We don't add acid, enzymes, filter so there isn't much manipulation in the winery.\" And what stands out is that these winemaking philosophies are imprinted on each and every wine under the Hoddles Creek and Wickham Road labels which are unique, characterful and savoury expressions of the modern Yarra style. They are also delicious and generally made to age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe above text was taken from an article by \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAngus Hughson published in Winepilot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hoddles Creek Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/HoddlesCreek_60417624-ed7e-4667-8fc8-4d17573e463e_1024x1024.jpg?v=1686274983\"\u003eHoddles Creek Estate was established in 1997 when the D'Anna family decided to establish a vineyard on the property that has been in the family since 1960. The vineyard sits astride Gembrook Road and adjacent to Hoddles Creek. Its steeply sloping blocks prohibit mechanical harvesting, with both vineyards being hand pruned and harvested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially, 8 hectares of pinot noir and chardonnay were planted to the steepest slopes on the vineyard. More pinot noir and chardonnay, plus some pinot blanc followed in 2001, with cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc coming later still. Franco, whose twin brother, Anthony, takes the reins at the store and for their prolific wine importing arm, Mondo Imports, first worked onsite in 1998, and it skewed him away from a career employing his commerce degree (Melbourne University) to retraining as a viticulturist at Charles Sturt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first commercial vintage at Hoddles Creek was in 2003, in their just-completed bespoke winery. All the wines, which are single vineyard, estate grown, are made in the 300 tonne winery. The split-level winery has a barrel store located three meters underground. Mario Marson (ex-Mount Mary, now Vinea Marson) steadied the course in the early days, but it was not long before Franco was in full charge, with the mandate to make the best wines he possibly could.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek produce two tiers of wine, their Estate range and their flagship '1er' (or Premier Cru) range with fruit from certain blocks that excel year after year. Along with the established range, Franco has started bottling single block wines as he starts to see distinct micro-site variation with the vines hitting meaningful maturity. In the vanguard of these bottlings is a chardonnay from the coolest, most elevated and steepest blocks, 'Syberia'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoddles Creek's mission is to produce terroir driven Yarra Valley wines of the highest possible quality sourced from impeccably farmed old vines with a focus on balance, complexity, concentration and ageability. They also lay a serious claim to being one of the best value producers in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the wines of their Yarra Valley vineyard, Hoddles Creek also produce an entry level range under the Wickhams Road label. Fruit is sourced from vineyards in Gippsland, Yarra Valley, King Valley and Yea. Hoddles Creek have become as well known for their dazzlingly economical Wickhams Road range as for their premium bottlings, as they are perennially the best-value chardonnay and pinot noir in the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections of the above text are taken from an article on Franco d'Anna that appeared in Young Gun of Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896851468529,"sku":"","price":39.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/hoddles-creek-estate-pinot-noir-2012.jpg?v=1697002492"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-pinot-noir-2019","title":"Mount Mary Pinot Noir 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is one of the iconic wineries of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. Their Pinot Noir is Yarra pinot at its finest, possessed of rare finesse and purity. The wine is typically medium bodied, with fragrant cherry and strawberry aromas and a vibrant, succulent palate of prodigious length. Production is minuscule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The bouquet is shy and reserved, emerging with understated 'forest floor' and dark cherry aromas overlain by smoky-oak lending hints of meaty-charcuterie. The wine is medium to full-bodied and shows great intensity from concentrated fruit, the flavour lasting long on the farewell and the tannins adding a supple backing of structure. There's a succulence to the fruit at its core, while the finish resonates long and satisfying. Utterly delicious drinking now - a most impressive pinot noir.\"  Huon Hooke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Pinot Noir vines were sourced from Western Victoria in 1971. The older Pinot blocks are a mix of many clones - there are 30+ clones in the original Pinot block. Subsequent plantings of Pinot have been selections from the original block, and the clonal selection has been somewhat refined. There are also some newer blocks planted (as of 2008) to American rootstocks that are of specific clonal material, namely MV6 and 777. In the winery the emphasis is on simplicity. By today's standards, relatively short fermentations are employed, typically 8-10 days. This is followed by 16 months of barrel maturation consisting of 25% new oak barriques. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"One of the most brilliant characteristics of Pinot Noir as a variety is that it tends to reflect and express the season more clearly than any other variety. The 2019 Pinot Noir shows some riper, more robust characters than are typical of Mount Mary Pinot Noir, while still carrying our hallmark elegance and purity. On the nose there are stewed plums, quince, cherry liqueur, sauté mushroom and spice. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe palate is rich, decadent, silky and seamless. There are flavours of plum, stewed strawberry, cherries and fine-grained toasty oak which will meld with the wine a little more with time in bottle. Currently, primary fruit characteristics feature more prominently in this wine over secondary characters of earth and undergrowth. Expect these savoury elements to become more obvious as the primary fruit subsides over the coming years.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca title=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018.png\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\" alt=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Deepish red colour with a good purple tint in the meniscus. The bouquet is shy and reserved, emerging with understated 'forest floor' and dark cherry aromas overlain by smoky-oak lending hints of meaty-charcuterie. The wine is medium to full-bodied and shows great intensity from concentrated fruit, the flavour lasting long on the farewell and the tannins adding a supple backing of structure. There's a succulence to the fruit at its core, while the finish resonates long and satisfying. Utterly delicious drinking now - a most impressive pinot noir\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2021-2034.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A fragrant, perfumed bouquet and palate with cherry plum and berry fruit has hallmark length; French oak (25% new) and ultra-fine tannins give it a beguiling complexity; the spices will build over years to come\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. 13% alc; cork, drink to 2034.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, The Weekend Australian - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The light ruby hue belies the whorl of intense flavour. Pretty aromatics. It bursts out with raspberries and cherries, then richer strawberry compote infused with bitter herbs, cloves and sarsaparilla. French oak is neatly tucked away, but acts as a support, while superfine tannins glide across a lighter- to medium-bodied frame. A beautiful and beguiling wine. Drink by 2035.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion 2022 – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sam Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\"  Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" style=\"color: #000000;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867623153,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Pinot-Noir-2019_a9f8b352-8148-404d-b8a2-bef8a3d131d9.jpg?v=1697262990"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-pinot-noir-2018","title":"Mount Mary Pinot Noir 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is one of the iconic wineries of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. Their Pinot Noir is Yarra pinot at its finest, possessed of rare finesse and purity. The wine is typically medium bodied, with fragrant cherry and strawberry aromas and a vibrant, succulent palate of prodigious length. Production is minuscule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Not a hair out of place, all the boxes with big ticks. A perfumed bouquet with rose petals and tantalising hints of forest, the vibrantly fresh palate with a diamond-clear stream of red fruits and spices. The length is awesome.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Pinot Noir vines were sourced from Western Victoria in 1971. The older Pinot blocks are a mix of many clones - there are 30+ clones in the original Pinot block. Subsequent plantings of Pinot have been selections from the original block, and the clonal selection has been somewhat refined. There are also some newer blocks planted (as of 2008) to American rootstocks that are of specific clonal material, namely MV6 and 777. In the winery the emphasis is on simplicity. By today's standards, relatively short fermentations are employed, typically 8-10 days. This is followed by 16 months of barrel maturation consisting of 25% new oak barriques. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Mount Mary Pinot Noir has always walked a fine line between bright, fresh primary fruit and darker, earthy secondary complexities. The fruit grown in our vineyard naturally lends itself so well to this style. We choose to work with these characteristics in the winery rather than push the wines in another direction. We have made this style of Pinot Noir for 40 years now. Any changes in winemaking follow the pursuit of perfecting and improving within this style.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis wine speaks volumes about what it is we are striving to achieve in the context of Pinot Noir. The nose opens with hints of strawberry, blackcurrant, quince, spice and some toasty oak flavours. There are many layers to the palate which show a certain density\/viscosity which we have watched build in bottle over the past 12 months. The palate is packed with flavours of strawberry, cherry and rhubarb along with earthy, spicy complexities. Through all this is an interwoven soft tannic structure giving the wine grip, length and longevity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca title=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018.png\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\" alt=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Bunch-sorted on vibrating tables, Oscillys-destemmed whole berries, 10-14 days on skins, matured 14-18 months in oak (25% new). Not a hair out of place, all the boxes with big ticks. A perfumed bouquet with rose petals and tantalising hints of forest, the vibrantly fresh palate with a diamond-clear stream of red fruits and spices. The length is awesome\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by 2038.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 98 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Strawberries, roses, cinnamon toast and biscuits, a whisper of undergrowth. Medium-bodied, autumnal feel, a little rhubarb, coolness and 'mineral' feel, finesse to the acidity and supremely 'elegant' feel to the wine, fine graphite tannin, and a wonderfully long and fragrant strawberry and spice finish. Gee, this is a special wine. I'm smitten\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. 2022 - 2035.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Light red\/purple colour, bright and clear, with a smoky toasty bouquet partially concealing raspberry, cherry cola and bitter Italian herb notes. The palate is elegantly-weighted and firmly-structured, suggesting it needs more time and will no doubt build complexity and softness. Lovely line and length: an effortless wine. It's very attractive now, but surely better in a year or two\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2021-2033.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A complex and attractive pinot that offers bright, vibrant red-cherry aromas with a gently spicy edge, aided by some well integrated oak influence. The palate has quite vivid red-fruit flavors, smoothly aligned tannins and a gently creamy edge to the finish. Bright, tangy resolve with resilient fruit flavors. Delicious\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Stock, JamesSuckling.com – 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\"  Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867655921,"sku":"","price":270.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Pinot-Noir-2018.jpg?v=1697262913"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-pinot-noir-2003","title":"Mount Mary Pinot Noir 2003","description":"\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is one of the iconic wineries of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. Their Pinot Noir is Yarra pinot at its finest, possessed of rare finesse and purity. The wine is typically medium bodied, with fragrant cherry and strawberry aromas and a vibrant, succulent palate of prodigious length. Production is minuscule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A sweet, spicy perfume of liqueur cherry chocolates, rose petals and briar reveals complex undertones of caramel, exotic spices and a faint meatiness. It's sumptuous and velvet-like, offering a deep, unctuous palate steeped in dark, juicy flavours of cherries and plums, framed by smooth, fine tannins. It's a baby of a wine, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if it demanded a score upgrade once it has been longer in the bottle.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Pinot Noir vines were sourced from Western Victoria in 1971. The older Pinot blocks are a mix of many clones - there are 30+ clones in the original Pinot block. Subsequent plantings of Pinot have been selections from the original block, and the clonal selection has been somewhat refined. In the winery the emphasis is on simplicity. By today's standards, relatively short fermentations are employed, typically 8-10 days. This is followed by 16 months of barrel maturation consisting of 25% new oak barriques.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A sweet, spicy perfume of liqueur cherry chocolates, rose petals and briar reveals complex undertones of caramel, exotic spices and a faint meatiness. It's sumptuous and velvet-like, offering a deep, unctuous palate steeped in dark, juicy flavours of cherries and plums, framed by smooth, fine tannins. It's a baby of a wine, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if it demanded a score upgrade once it has been longer in the bottle.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Light but bright hue; a light-bodied, elegant wine, the light plum and spice fruit as yet very restrained. History shows it will develop given time.\"\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867754225,"sku":"","price":310.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Pinot-Noir-2003_350ad50b-b8db-4b6d-b821-550003154dd6.jpg?v=1697262616"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-pinot-noir-2002","title":"Mount Mary Pinot Noir 2002","description":"\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is one of the iconic wineries of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. Their Pinot Noir is Yarra pinot at its finest, possessed of rare finesse and purity. The wine is typically medium bodied, with fragrant cherry and strawberry aromas and a vibrant, succulent palate of prodigious length. Production is minuscule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A pretty, floral and charming pinot with a fragrance of rose petals, strawberries and red cherries over nuances of cinnamon, cloves, herbal undertones and restrained vanilla oak. Sweet, smooth and juicy, its palate has some flesh and pleasing fine-grained support. Fine and supple, with a herbal thread beneath, it's a delightful wine for shorter term cellaring.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Pinot Noir vines were sourced from Western Victoria in 1971. The older Pinot blocks are a mix of many clones - there are 30+ clones in the original Pinot block. Subsequent plantings of Pinot have been selections from the original block, and the clonal selection has been somewhat refined. In the winery the emphasis is on simplicity. By today's standards, relatively short fermentations are employed, typically 8-10 days. This is followed by 16 months of barrel maturation consisting of 25% new oak barriques. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A pretty, floral and charming pinot with a fragrance of rose petals, strawberries and red cherries over nuances of cinnamon, cloves, herbal undertones and restrained vanilla oak. Sweet, smooth and juicy, its palate has some flesh and pleasing fine-grained support, presenting lively up-front and slightly confectionary flavours of cherry and berries. Fine and supple, with a herbal thread beneath, it's a delightful wine for shorter term cellaring.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 92 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sam Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867786993,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Pinot-Noir-2002.jpg?v=1697262538"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2019","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Suckling Australian Wine of the Year 2021\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2021 (#4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of Australia 2021\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"It's no news flash, but for me, this is one of the greatest wines produced in Australia, if not the world. My word. Head-spinning perfume, pencils and spice, rich deep dark berry flavour, aniseed and almond paste. Medium-bodied, density delivered with effortless elegance, delicious nutty chew to its carpet of ripe tannin, a mix of red and black fruits, and an exotic character to a finish of outstanding length. Incredible. Drink 2021-2042+.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. The 2019 season could not have been more perfectly suited to ripening the five left-bank Bordeaux varieties which feature in this wine. The colour is strikingly deep and vibrant at this young age. On the nose this wine shows a ripe, dark-fruit spectrum courtesy of the warmer growing season conditions. The aromatics include scents of blackcurrant, cassis, violets, cherry, cocoa and a pleasing level of Cabernet 'leafiness' adding to the wine's aromatic complexity. The palate is defined by incredible purity of fruit, a hallmark of our flagship Quintet blend. It shows flavours of plums, raspberry, chocolate and hints of mint. The tannins are so fine and pure yet give this wine brilliant texture, energy and longevity.\u003c\/span\u003e\"  \u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" title=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018.png\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is a great Quintet, one of the best in fact. Here's a wine that combines such elegance, power and polish to a level seen in the best wines of Bordeaux in the best vintages. Aromas of blueberries, cassis and mulberries are framed in cedar and fresh, leafy Cabernet tones, as well as violets and forest wood. Some subtle oak spice here, too. The palate is so seamlessly layered with ultra-fine tannins that carry pristine blueberry, redcurrant and blackcurrant flavours. Concentrated, with pitch-perfect balance. Acidity imbues the finish with freshness and vitality. So elegant and unwavering. A Yarra Valley First Growth! Delicious now, but try from 2027 and for a decade after that.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNick Stock, JamesSuckling.com - 100 points and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAustralian Wine of the Year 2021, \u003c\/span\u003eTop 100 Wines of the World 2021 and Top 100 Wines of Australia 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"One of the greatest Quintet releases. Aromas of blueberry, mulberry and cassis framed in fresh leaf and cedar, some violet perfume, too. The layered palate has ultra-fine tannin and concentrated pure flavours of blueberry, redcurrant and cassis. Pitch-perfect acidity.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGourmet Traveller Wine  – 100 points  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e★★★★★\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA quintet of 44% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 16% cabernet franc and 5% each of malbec and petit verdot, all in harmony. Heady aromatics, the fruit pristine and lightly spiced. But it's the medium-bodied palate that really woos: focused and seamless with superfine yet detailed tannins. Of course it has the beauty and charm of youth but age will send this to another level. Did I mention elegance? Tick. Drink by 2039.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion - 98 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Its superb colour promises all that is delivered by this utterly glorious wine, every detail perfect. Cassis, blackcurrant, black olive, bay leaf and cedar rest on a cushion of polished tannins, its harmony and balance faultless. 13% alc; cork. Drink to 2041.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday, The Weekend Australian - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDeep, bright, glowing purple\/red colour, fresh and youthful. The aromas are superbly ripe and varietal at the same moment, summoning violets, black, red and blue berries, the palate likewise tremendously intense and precise, focused and pure, the oak pretty much invisible. An exquisite fragrance! The wine is medium to full-bodied and beautifully flavoured and structured, the finish long and even, the tannins soft and harmonious. A wine of effortless grace and beauty. Drink 2021-2041.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2019 Quintet was served to us at dinner in Yarraglen this week, and it looked impossibly fresh and red fruited on that night. In the lineup here today, the warm season has given the wine a density and gravitas, but it does it with a surge of buoyancy and density at the same time. The wine is black-fruited as opposed to red here, but with ruby inflections. It has a super pleasurable feel in the mouth. 13% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Drink: 2023 - 2059.\"\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErin Larkin, Wine Advocate - 97+ points (Tasted Aug 2023)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eIt's no news flash, but for me, this is one of the greatest wines produced in Australia, if not the world. My word. Head-spinning perfume, pencils and spice, rich deep dark berry flavour, aniseed and almond paste. Medium-bodied, density delivered with effortless elegance, delicious nutty chew to its carpet of ripe tannin, a mix of red and black fruits, and an exotic character to a finish of outstanding length. Incredible. Drink 2021-2042+.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Suckling Australian Wine of the Year 2021\u003cbr\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2021 (#4)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of Australia 2021\u003cbr\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867819761,"sku":"","price":245.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2019.jpg?v=1697414729"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2018","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2018","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHalliday Wine Companion \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBest Cabernet \u0026amp; Family Varietal of 2021 \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2020\u003cbr\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of Australia 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"It could well be my Wine of the Year. Fabulous release.\"  Campbell Mattinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This is a great edition of this standard bearer for elegant Yarra Valley claret. The palate has such expressiveness with impressively vibrant red cherries, plums and berries, all in unison with faultlessly fine, long and seamless tannins. This is delicious now and will age so well. The greatest Quintet ever? Certainly in my lifetime!\"  Nick Stock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. \u003c\/span\u003eWe feel in time the 2018 will be considered in the top echelon of all Quintets produced since the inaugural commercial release in 1976. It has a strikingly deep, vibrant hue when poured into the glass and such an energy that runs through both the aromatics and the palate. The nose shows all the hallmark characteristics of our Quintet blend from the great vintages; cassis, cherry, chocolate and a hint of varietal Yarra Cabernet leafiness are all present in the aroma profile. The palate is medium weight but with such intensity and concentration. There is a real complexity of fruit flavours interwoven with balanced oak and coupled with that quintessential Quintet structure (soft but grainy, persistent tannin).\"  \u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" title=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018.png\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Stands proudly at the head of the Mount Mary portfolio. A blend of 44% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 16% cabernet franc and 5% each of malbec and petit verdot, each variety handled according to its structure. Open\/static fermenters, wood\/stainless steel, 10-14 days on skins, 35% new oak from a range of coopers and forests, 16-20 months in barrel. Mesmerisingly silky, with a kaleidoscope of fruit and secondary flavour\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003es. Drink by: 2048.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 99 points, Best Cabernet \u0026amp; Family Varietal of 2021 and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This is a great edition of this standard bearer for elegant Yarra Valley claret. The nose is detailed and fresh with a central theme of red and dark berries, cedar, cocoa powder, violet-like florals and light leafy notes. The palate has such expressiveness with impressively vibrant red cherries, plums and berries, all in unison with faultlessly fine, long and seamless tannins. This is delicious now and will age so well. The greatest Quintet ever? Certainly in my lifetime!\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNick Stock, JamesSuckling.com – 99 points, Top 100 Wines of the World 2020 and Top 100 Wines of Australia 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Deep, bright, youthful red\/purple colour, with a reserved but stylish bouquet suggesting cedar cigarbox, red fruits, roses, tobacco and a subtle smoked-meat, charcuterie note. The wine is full-bodied and elegantly-framed, with liberal tannins that are soft and fine yet insistent, adding to its prodigious palate length. Gorgeous flavour of blue and red fruits, floral highlights and wonderful cleansing, refreshing tannins that leave you wanting more. It has lip-smacking, appetising qualities. A stunning wine\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.  Drink: 2020-2043.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 98 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eThe holy trinity of Cabernet from south of the equator, for me at least, is Te Mata Estate Coleraine, Cullen Diana Madeline, and Mount Mary Quintet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBlackcurrant, cherry, raspberry, violet, an empty box of chocolates, and subtle leafy perfume. Medium-bodied, deft delivery of intense small-berried red and black fruit, tobacco and dried flowers with a discreet seasoning of cocoa, embroidered with pure and vital acidity, fine carbon tannin, and a supremely long and fresh finish. If there were a dictionary of wine, this would be listed under the word 'class'. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDrink: 2025-2048+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 97+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Shimmering ruby-red. Intensely perfumed red fruit preserve, incense notes lift from the glass. Palate-staining, finely etched red and blue fruit, rose pastille, licorice and espresso flavors deftly blend depth and vivacity. Finishes youthfully chewy and precise, with steadily building tannins, resonating red fruit, spice and floral notes and remarkable persistence.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJosh Raynolds, Vinous - 97 points \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"It could well be my Wine of the Year. Fabulous release.\"\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTop 100 Wines of the World 2020 - James Suckling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTop 100 Wines of Australia 2020 - James Suckling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBest Cabernet \u0026amp; Family Varietal of 2021 - Halliday Wine Companion\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.” \u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.” \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\"  \u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.” \u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.” \u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\"  Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867852529,"sku":"","price":230.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2018_6929d435-9ff9-4f9f-8bf3-1b6758a9c38c.jpg?v=1697414244"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2015","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2015","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of Australia 2017\u003cbr\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I don't think MM Quintet has ever been in better form than it is right now. It's all just so, and first and last impressions are of a wine of supreme balance, perfect ripeness, and phenomenal length. Medium bodied, supple yet gravelly tannin, density and thickness, delivered with no heaviness, cool fresh raspberry acidity, and *that* finish, infused with black tea. It drinks beautifully now, and most likely in another thirty years. A new high-water mark for Mount Mary Quintet, I feel.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur vineyard is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Merlot (25%), Cabernet Franc (15%), Malbec (5%) and Petit Verdot (5%). The percentage of each variety that goes into the final blend changes with the season, as factors such as fruitfulness and fruit set vary. The greatest influence we have over the quality of this wine is deciding when to pick each variety. This determines not only the flavours but the quality of tannins, the acid and alcohol levels. These varieties ferment on skins for around 12-14 days. This is followed by 22 months of barrel maturation, with 25% of the blend in large format oak (1500L or larger), and 30% in new barriques (225L). The remaining wine is matured in 2-5 year old barriques. Minimal fining and filtration is carried out prior to bottling.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/WCQzauMfBAU\" title=\"Huon Hooke reviews Mount Mary Quintet 2015\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Huon Hooke reviews Mount Mary Quintet 2015\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryQuintet2015_480x480.png?v=1698436295\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHuon Hooke reviews Mount Mary Quintet 2015\u003cbr\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"A superb wine from the very first impression, showing a lot of ripe cassis, leafy notes, chocolate and cedar. Hints of graphite, red plums, redcurrants, too. Merlot is back in the mix and it has higher percentage in the blend (30% to 44% cabernet sauvignon). The palate is silky, smooth, really slick and supple. A beautifully balanced wine here. Long, regal, suave and showy. Layered and full of interest. Drink or hold.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e, JamesSuckling.com - 98 points and Top 100 Wines of Australia 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"In 2019 or thereabouts, I tasted the 2015 JWDM Cabernet from Mount Mary, and it both asked and answered questions I have about Cabernet tannins in one fell swoop. I will never forget the way the tannins performed in the mouth that day: they gave new meaning to pliability, ductility, support and flow and told me that natural grape tannin is the highest, purest form of structure that there is. We know now that the 2015 season yielded brilliant wines of clarity and classicism in this part of the world, and so, with that preamble, I taste the 2015 Quintet here today, after seven years in bottle. On the nose, there is raspberry seed, bramble, cocoa, cassis, tobacco, bay leaf, a hint of tapenade, cardamom pod and brine. In the mouth, the wine plays out with all of these characteristics. It is supple and pliable and balanced, perhaps its most wonderful feature is the balance. It's a ripping wine, a superstar. If you're the owner of some 2015 Quintets, good for you. I'm jealous. 13.3% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Drink: 2023 - 2065.\"\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErin Larkin, Wine Advocate - 98 points (Tasted Aug 2023)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"It may just be me, or it could be vine age, winemaking, global warming, or any or all of those, and maybe other things too, but to end this tortuous sentence, all I really wanted to say, is I don't think MM Quintet has ever been in better form than it is right now. Phew! I got that out. And if you're still with me, read on…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's all just so, and first and last impressions are of a wine of supreme balance, perfect ripeness, and phenomenal length. Red and black fruits, violets, pencil shavings and sweet earthiness. Medium bodied, supple yet gravelly tannin, density and thickness, delivered with no heaviness, cool fresh raspberry acidity, and *that* finish, infused with black tea. It drinks beautifully now, and most likely in another thirty years. A new high-water mark for Mount Mary Quintet, I feel\u003cspan\u003e. Drink: 2020-2045+.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 97+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just because the Mount Mary wines are famed for their purity, elegance and balance doesn't mean that they eschew power and layered complexity. Quintet (the five Bordeaux varieties) is the king of the portfolio. The rainbow of fresh, vibrant cassis, redcurrant, dried herb and bramble flavours are absolutely exemplary\u003cspan\u003e. Drink by: 2035.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points, Top 100 Wines for 2017 and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Deep, youthful red\/purple colour, coupled with very fresh, young cabernet aromas of violet, briar, blackberry, tamarillo and dark plum. The wine is very elegant in the mouth: medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced, with terrific freshness and verve. The palate's focus is fine and tight, the tannins measured and structural; without being tough or astringent. The finish is long and the wine is seamless, with great line and length. A graceful wine\u003cspan\u003e. Drink: 2020-2040.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Sweet cassis, mulberries, dark cherries and plums with dusty, cedary oak overlie notes of chocolate, clove and dusty spice. Its medium-bodied, seamless palate of pristine sour-edged small dark berries cherries and plums drives tightly knit over a fine, faintly chalky spine, supported by gamey, cigarboxy undertones. Wrapped in a refreshing acidity, it retains shape and tautness, delivering the expectation of a long cellaring life. Drink: 2035-2045.\" \u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJeremy Oliver – 97 points \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Earthy savoury notes with black olive, cedar, clove, some herbal whiffs. Strict and taut in the palate, earthy and graphite like tannins, chewy and long, ripples with sinewy tannin and structure, draws long and to a very fine point. So very youthful. 2020-2035+.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eMike Bennie, The Wine Front - 96+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday Top 100 Wines of 2017\u003cbr\u003eJames Suckling Top 100 Wines of 2017\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\"  Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867885297,"sku":"","price":255.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2015.jpg?v=1697413933"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2014","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2014","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Medium bodied, delicious boysenberry\/blackcurrant flavour, cool minerally acidity, mouth-filling but ultra fine gravelly tannin, that superb Cabernet perfume again, and extreme length closing with an array of red and black berries and refreshingly pure rain-washed acidity. What a wine. As a frame of reference, perhaps Ginger Rogers – can do anything Fred can do, but backwards while wearing heels – and a fraction better it is than either 2012 or 2013, I'd suggest.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Like the Chardonnay, the 2014 Quintet shows all the attributes of quintessential Mount Mary Quintet. This release seems slightly more dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon characters rather than Merlot, as was the case with the 2013 vintage. As Dr John would often remark, \"Good Cabernet should smell like Cabernet, let's not over-complicate things,” and this wine does just that. The aromas are dominated by violets, cherries, cassis and spice. There is a level of vibrancy to this wine, only seen at such a young age in the very best vintages. The palate is built around beautifully ripe, ultra-fine grained tannin. The mid-palate is rich, long and expansive and shows all five varieties quite clearly playing their role and adding complexity.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\" title=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018.png\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YpvUQtFJ1Ws\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-HallidayWineCompanionWineryoftheYear2018_480x480.png?v=1698437660\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary - Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick on image to play video\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"While there wasn't a lot of wine made in the Yarra Valley in '14 (wind and rain during flowering), some wine of very high quality was made - witness this. Mount Mary has shown over the decades that Quintet develops superbly, and this complex dark berry-flavoured Bordeaux blend will do just that\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by: 2039.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 97 points and Special Value Wine  \u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Sam Middleton was thoughtful enough to send the 2012 and 2013, alongside this soon to be released 2014. Now, I've tasted the first two before, though it's a wonderful thing to taste all three at once. The first thing that strikes me, is that quite apart from the vagaries of vintage, the three wines in themselves are quite similar. And to distill this down to a simple message, it's this: the site talks louder than the vintage. The 2012 is perhaps the most svelte and refined (though it opens a little smoky and reductive) with an enticing almost sweet liquorice\/truffle top note, over red and black fruits, with a spicy herbal edge. Fine acidity and length its hallmarks. It's the Fred Astaire of the trio. The 2013 shows an earthier, perhaps more mineral quality, with blackcurrant and blackberry, a more chunky tannin driven structure, and a long earthy finish. More your James Brown, to draw the tenuous bow of analogy once more. And as for the 2014?. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePerfumed and pretty with almost succulent small black and red berries, a little vanilla and violet, cedar, tobacco and pencil cases. Medium bodied, delicious boysenberry\/blackcurrant flavour, cool minerally acidity, mouth-filling but ultra fine gravelly tannin, that superb Cabernet perfume again, and extreme length closing with an array of red and black berries and refreshingly pure rain-washed acidity. What a wine. As a frame of reference, perhaps Ginger Rogers – can do anything Fred can do, but backwards while wearing heels – and a fraction better it is than either 2012 or 2013, I'd suggest\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2020-2044+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 96+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Medium to deep red\/purple colour with a bright, youthful primary fruit aroma invoking red cherry, raspberry and some blackberry. It's very fruit-driven. The palate is medium-bodied and elegantly crafted, with balance and persistence - red fruits predominating. An understated style, which treads the narrow path of ripeness beautifully\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2020-2039.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpecial Value Wine – Halliday Wine Companion  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #f9e00c;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #f9e00c;\"\u003e★ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sam Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\"  Mount Mary \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867918065,"sku":"","price":225.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2014_0c4f2cd6-e009-4bdc-a311-a8509b316d25.jpg?v=1697412538"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2005","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2005","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Lovely elegant wine with a cedar, cigarbox bouquet and a complex, mellow personality. Intense and beautifully balanced, a wine of poise and style. Ripeness is spot-on, and it's achieved at modest alcohol, too. The corollary of this is a refreshing style of wine that leaves you feeling like another glass, and unlike higher-alcohol reds, it never palls.\"  Huon Hooke (Tasted Feb 2014)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Supremely elegant, stylish and focused, this aristocratic red has a heady, floral perfume of dark cherries, plums, cassis and blackberries backed by scents of violets and dried herbs, dark chocolate\/vanilla oak and suggestions of mocha. Sumptuously flavoured but silky-smooth, it's dark-fruited, dusty and savoury, with an intensity that builds steadily towards its palate-staining finish. Framed by fine and beautifully ripened tannins, it flaunts its considerable influence from merlot. Drink 2017-2025\u003cspan\u003e+.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJeremy Oliver – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLovely elegant wine with a cedar, cigarbox bouquet and a complex, mellow personality. Intense and beautifully balanced, a wine of poise and style. Ripeness is spot-on, and it's achieved at modest alcohol, too. The corollary of this is a refreshing style of wine that leaves you feeling like another glass, and unlike higher-alcohol reds, it never palls.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 96 points (Tasted Feb 2014)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Supremely graceful and fine in typical Mount Mary style; the long and silky palate has a tapestry of red and black fruit flavours, the finish long and satisfying, the aftertaste lingering for minutes. Drink by 2020.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896867983601,"sku":"","price":250.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2005.jpg?v=1697411501"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2003","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2003","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Smooth and silky, the palate is round and juicy, delivering a sumptuous expression of vibrant dark cherry and small berry fruit handsomely supported by fine-grained oak and the finest of tannins. It's polished and harmoniously balanced, and should develop impressive complexity with bottle-age.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Dusty aromas of fresh, dark cherries, blackberries and cassis are backed by tightly knit cedar\/chocolate oak, with violet-like and tobaccoey undertones. Smooth and silky, the palate is round and juicy, delivering a sumptuous expression of vibrant dark cherry and small berry fruit handsomely supported by fine-grained oak and the finest of tannins. It's polished and harmoniously balanced, and should develop impressive complexity with bottle-age\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2015-2023.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Good colour; considerable depth and power to the array of cassis, blackcurrant and blackberry fruit; very good texture and structure; abundant fine tannins and controlled oak\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink by 2020.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868049137,"sku":"","price":250.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2003.jpg?v=1697410935"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2002","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2002","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Very fine, elegant, cool-climate cabernet blend whose pristine fruit and finely handled oak integrate tightly with a satiny spine of fine-grained tannins. Smooth and stylish, it's pristine and silky, presenting exceptional length and brightness of fruit over lightly herbal and tobaccoey nuances of undergrowth and sweet oak.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Very fine, elegant, cool-climate cabernet blend whose pristine fruit and finely handled oak integrate tightly with a satiny spine of fine-grained tannins. Its perfume of cassis and violets reveals a hint of dusty herbal influence, undergrowth and tightly measured cedar\/dark chocolate oak. Smooth and stylish, it's pristine and silky, presenting exceptional length and brightness of fruit\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e over lightly herbal and tobaccoey nuances of undergrowth and sweet oak. Drink 2014-2022.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868081905,"sku":"","price":250.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2002_60537312-f5f2-4ce1-97fc-9033690d6100.jpg?v=1697410837"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2001","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2001","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Still youthful and bright; the bouquet very complex with crisp blackcurrant, violet, gently leafy cabernet family aromas leading into a tremendously elegant and beautifully focused palate. It's elegant and subtle, reflecting its low alcohol, but also very intense, concentrated and long. A superb wine.\"  Huon Hooke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"A dusty, but deeply concentrated perfume of crushed violets and cassis is backed by sweet vanilla and chocolate oak, with a whiff of capsicum. Rich, smooth and seamless, almost opulent for a cabernet, it's wonderfully long, harmonious and stylish, constructed around the finest of firm tannins. For the cellar\u003cspan\u003e. Drink 2013-2021.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJeremy Oliver – 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Dark red. Claret-like aromas of currant, plum, mocha and tobacco, complicated by a subtle mintiness. Sweet, complex and sophisticated, with lively, sharply delineated, youthfully backward currant, mineral and herbal flavors. At once quite suave and impressively concentrated. Finishes with dusty tannins and terrific but very subtle length. Quite young and built to age\u003cspan\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eStephen Tanzer - 94+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003eExcellent depth and hue of colour, still youthful and bright; the bouquet very complex with crisp blackcurrant, violet, gently leafy cabernet family aromas leading into a tremendously elegant and beautifully focused palate. It's elegant and subtle, reflecting its low alcohol, but also very intense, concentrated and long. A superb wine, with just a tinge of 'animal' creeping in as the wine warmed and breathed - but not enough to concern me. Drink: 2015-2025.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 94 points (Tasted Feb 2015)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868147441,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2001_44309fac-6923-4c64-b532-a0c345c96aba.jpg?v=1697410727"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2000","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2000","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJeremy Oliver Wine of the Year 2003\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Even finer than the exceptional 1999 release. It is the most exciting young cabernet blend I have ever tasted from Mount Mary. An essay in creamy vinous texture and restrained strength, its palate bursts with dark berry fruits, revealing layers of smoky, herbal complexity suggestive of dried leaves. Perfectly ripe, sumptuous and firm, it is framed by powder-fine tannins. No apologies that this benchmark Australian expression of the left bank Bordeaux blend is hard to lay hands on. If you're serious, you'll find a way.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Even finer than the exceptional 1999 release, named as a finalist for last year's Wine of the Year, is the most exciting young cabernet blend I have ever tasted from Mount Mary. Its deeply scented fragrance of cassis, violets and dark plums, lightly polished cedar and chocolate oak precedes an underlay of gravel and mocha. An essay in creamy vinous texture and restrained strength, its palate bursts with dark berry fruits, revealing layers of smoky, herbal complexity suggestive of dried leaves. Perfectly ripe, sumptuous and firm, it is framed by powder-fine tannins. No apologies that this benchmark Australian expression of the left bank Bordeaux blend is hard to lay hands on. If you're serious, you'll find a way\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A superb wine: rich, full-bodied, supple textured and powerful. There's a lovely roundness and generosity to the palate.\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" property=\"reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Drink: Now.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" property=\"reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" property=\"reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 94 points (Tasted Dec 2021)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver Wine of the Year 2003\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sam Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868180209,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2000.jpg?v=1697410469"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-1999","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 1999","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The bouquet is very mature, savoury and earthy, with some dry leather and roasting pan traces, a little cigarbox and tobacco too. It's mellow and complex in its maturity. The weight is medium-bodied and the texture supple with balanced acidity and fine-grained tannins. Red fruits rather than dark. A superb mature Bordeaux blend, the remnants of which were still tasting well the next day.\"  Huon Hooke (Tasted Dec 2021)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"A deluxe, silky-smooth, supremely elegant and complete blend of red Bordeaux varieties of exceptional longevity. There's a multi-layered aspect to its complex aroma, as an intense violet perfume gives way to chocolate and cedar oak, which itself reveals a profound core of pure cassis and small red berry fruit. Wonderfully balanced and deftly integrated, it's the complete package\u003cspan\u003e. Drink 2011-2019.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJeremy Oliver – 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003eMedium to full brick-red to tawny colour, showing maturity. The bouquet is likewise very mature, savoury and earthy, with some dry leather and roasting pan traces, a little cigarbox and tobacco too. It's mellow and complex in its maturity. The weight is medium-bodied and the texture supple with balanced acidity and fine-grained tannins. Red fruits rather than dark. A superb mature Bordeaux blend, the remnants of which were still tasting well the next day.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003eDrink: Now.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"cs-reviewBody\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"reviewBody\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHuon Hooke, The Real Review - 95 points (Tasted Dec 2021)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868212977,"sku":"","price":300.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-1999.jpg?v=1697410363"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2006-1500ml","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2006 (1500ml)","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"All about subtlety and finesse; while medium-bodied, has deceptive intensity and length, the five varieties seamlessly moulded into a mix of black and red fruits, fine tannins and a gently savoury finish. Oak? Yes, it's there, but you don't notice it.\"  James Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A terrific wine of superb balance and focus. Its smoky bouquet of small dark berries and plums overlies nuances of mushrooms, minerals and restrained cedary oak. Supremely long, elegant and fine-grained, it still presents remarkable depth and richness of dark cherry, plum and berry flavour underpinned by fine crunchy tannins, nuances of dried herbs and suggestions of briar and undergrowth. It finishes with exceptional length and tight-knit acidity\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. YTD 2018-2026+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver - 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"All about subtlety and finesse; while medium-bodied, has deceptive intensity and length\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, the five varieties seamlessly moulded into a mix of black and red fruits, fine tannins and a gently savoury finish. Oak? Yes, it's there, but you don't notice it.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sam Middleton\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868245745,"sku":"","price":795.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2006-1500ml_f91e95fe-9c01-48f3-a211-f7ed14843a68.jpg?v=1697411598"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2005-1500ml","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2005 (1500ml)","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Lovely elegant wine with a cedar, cigarbox bouquet and a complex, mellow personality. Intense and beautifully balanced, a wine of poise and style. Ripeness is spot-on, and it's achieved at modest alcohol, too. The corollary of this is a refreshing style of wine that leaves you feeling like another glass, and unlike higher-alcohol reds, it never palls.\"  Huon Hooke (Tasted Feb 2014)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Supremely elegant, stylish and focused, this aristocratic red has a heady, floral perfume of dark cherries, plums, cassis and blackberries backed by scents of violets and dried herbs, dark chocolate\/vanilla oak and suggestions of mocha. Sumptuously flavoured but silky-smooth, it's dark-fruited, dusty and savoury, with an intensity that builds steadily towards its palate-staining finish. Framed by fine and beautifully ripened tannins, it flaunts its considerable influence from merlot. Drink 2017-2025\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Lovely elegant wine with a cedar, cigarbox bouquet and a complex, mellow personality. Intense and beautifully balanced, a wine of poise and style. Ripeness is spot-on, and it's achieved at modest alcohol, too. The corollary of this is a refreshing style of wine that leaves you feeling like another glass, and unlike higher-alcohol reds, it never palls.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Huon Hooke, The Real Review - 96 points (Tasted Feb 2014)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Supremely graceful and fine in typical Mount Mary style; the long and silky palate has a tapestry of red and black fruit flavours, the finish long and satisfying, the aftertaste lingering for minutes. Drink by 2020.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868278513,"sku":"","price":850.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2005-1500ml.jpg?v=1697411527"},{"product_id":"mount-mary-quintet-2004-1500ml","title":"Mount Mary Quintet 2004 (1500ml)","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMount Mary Quintet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A top-drawer Mount Mary. Beautifully controlled and contained, its silky and elegant palate conceals its ample power and strength beneath an exterior of spotlessly fresh, pure blackcurrant and dark cherry fruit.\"  Jeremy Oliver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio.\"  James Halliday \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/0brDAeIfm1k\" title=\"Mount Mary Winery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Mount Mary Winery\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryWinery_480x480.png?v=1698446723\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Mary Winery (click on image to play video)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A top-drawer Mount Mary red that would appear to contain significantly more merlot than its mere eleven percent. Its deep, dark and briary aromas of violets, cassis, blackberries, dark plums and plain chocolate reveal undertones of dried herbs and bramble. Beautifully controlled and contained, its silky and elegant palate conceals its ample power and strength\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e beneath an exterior of spotlessly fresh, pure blackcurrant and dark cherry fruit, camera-shy oak and tannin so delicate and fine that its genuine impact could easily be ignored. Evenly ripened, it also reveals classic nuances of dried herbs. Drink 2016-2024+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJeremy Oliver – 97 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Fresh leather strapping, cigar box, black tea – this has elegance and refinement to spare – it is all about clarity and finesse, creamy and silky.  The layers of spice that straddle the pure fruit are nothing short of astounding… and I am led by the nose to BDX.  For sheer length and persistence…. Wow.\" \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErin Larkin, erinlarkin.com.au – 96\/97 points (Tasted 2020)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"An elegant, stately red. Bright colour; classy bouquet of violets, crushed-leaf, cassis, mulberry and briar. Great flavour, line and balance on palate. Beautifully proportioned\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, with no excess of oak, alcohol or tannin.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHuon Hooke, Gourmet Traveller Wine - 96 points  ★★★★★\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Excellent hue though not particularly deep; a classic, understated Mount Mary style, beautiful fruit\/oak\/tannin balance; cassis and blackcurrant dominate, then silky tannins on a very long finish\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Cabernet Sauvignon\/Merlot\/Cabernet Franc\/Malbec\/Petit Verdot. Drink by: 2024.”  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJames Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr John \u0026amp; Sam Middleton\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\" alt=\"Dr John and Marli Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-MarliandJohnMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404719\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e Dr John and Marli Middleton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr John Middleton was a prominent physician and a giant of the Australian wine industry. He played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region when he founded Mount Mary in 1971, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn was the son of a country doctor and initially followed in his father's footsteps. \"John studied medicine at Melbourne University, where he met arts student Marli Russell, who was to become his wife. He graduated with honours in all subjects and was awarded prestigious medical prizes. To the surprise of friends and colleagues, this talented graduate from a privileged background chose not to become what was known in those days as 'a Collins Street specialist'. He had no desire to be a rich, society medico. He had a deep social conscience and as a physician, he would treat and counsel an entire family for the price of one patient.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhilip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s John and Marli, driven by a passion for fine table wine, made many visits to the wine producing regions of the world and in particular, to Bordeaux and Burgundy. They soon became hooked on French premium wines and the thought of producing something similar in Australia. They resolved to find a suitable site upon which to establish a small commercial vineyard with the intention of making elegant, low-alcohol wines from French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen John finally decided to devote his life to making wine, he \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't let his busy medical practice impede his search for the perfect vineyard site. H\u003c\/span\u003ee walked the slopes of the low hills surrounding the Yarra Valley and arranged for soil to be tested. It was in 1971 that he came across Mount Mary, a property that had grey-clay soil and a north-facing slope ideal for grape growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn planted 25 acres of vines in 1972 and produced the first Mount Mary vintage in 1976. The release comprised four wines: Quintet (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot), Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn's attention to detail was legendary and he possessed a relentless drive for perfection. \"John Middleton practised near-obsessive attention to detail long before that phrase slid into oenological vernacular. Even journalists were vetted before being allowed into the winery, its sanitary standard that of a hospital operating theatre. And therein lay the secret of the quality of the wines. Infinite care was taken with every stage of converting grapes into wine to be released when (in Middleton's view) it was ready.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn never sought media attention, there were no public tastings, no cellar door sales, no winemaker dinners and no advertising; the sole marketing expense was an annual A4 brochure sent to clients on his mailing list. \"I still recall John Middleton eschewing all the glitz and glam of wine marketing and PR, boycotting the wine shows and expos, refusing to send a bottle for a magazine tasting because 'we might have all been drinking coffee or eating garlic for breakfast'. It was all irrelevant to him. All that mattered was what went into the bottle. No advertising, no fanfare, no flying the word's press to the winery for a party. Whatever fame Mount Mary has attained, it has achieved solely on the back of its wine quality. And that's a lot of fame.\" \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuon Hooke\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a classic understatement to say that John was a complex personality. When I first started seriously purchasing wine, the highlight of the buying year was tasting the new vintage release wines at Mount Mary, but more particularly spending time talking with John. My fondest memory was the year I arrived to find John leaning on the driveway gate, in a particularly reflective mood, and listening to his long discourse on a wide range of subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"John did not suffer fools gladly. He wrote an annual newsletter that was usually controversial and, if he thought it was deserved, would attack politicians, government departments and critics with withering contempt. John would usually leave it until perhaps the fourth sentence for his first shot of invective, and by then it was on for young and old. He somehow contrived to address the majority of important issues facing the global wine industry, plus anything else that came to mind, in and around the loose context of introducing his loyal band of buyers to Mount Mary's forthcoming wine release. One stoush over government interference stemmed from state and federal excise on quality wine on the professed grounds of curbing alcoholism. 'These (connoisseurs of quality wines) are the last people to be viewed as drunkards,' he noted. It was riveting stuff; never dull, always intelligent and never failing to overlook any technical or political reality that might have weakened his case. John's intensity, focus and the strength of his self-belief will long remain in the consciousness of everyone who knew him.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eA combination of excerpts from Angus Hughson, The Wine Genius and Philip Jones, The Sydney Morning Herald\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Middleton made Mount Mary one of Australia's greatest vineyards. \"John relentlessly strove for perfection and all 4 of the wines in the original Mount Mary portfolio achieved just that. By the time John died in 2006, aged 82, Mount Mary's wines had long been recognised as the leader of the Yarra Valley pack.\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\" alt=\"Sam Middleton\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMary-SamMiddleton_1024x1024.png?v=1682404788\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is in the form of its life with Sam Middleton as Head Winemaker, a position he has held since 2011. \"Current winemaker and third-generation family member Sam Middleton has managed to sensitively and intelligently refine the wines to their highest-ever level of quality, driven from the vineyard up.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNick Stock\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSam Middleton is a third generation winemaker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary is entering its second golden age with Sam Middleton in charge of the winemaking process. \"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCharming grandson Sam Middleton is equally dedicated (as Dr John Middleton). \u003c\/span\u003eAn all-encompassing recent tasting of every vintage of the 4 wines \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the original Mount Mary portfolio \u003c\/span\u003eleft me in no doubt he is making even better wines.\" \u003cem\u003eJames Halliday\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbout the winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\" alt=\"Mount Mary Vineyard\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/MountMaryVineyard_8882f8ab-51ce-4c94-a68a-a42396df68d4_1024x1024.png?v=1682401180\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary, a highly acclaimed single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is owned and operated by the Middleton family. Dr John Middleton purchased Mount Mary in 1971 and planted 25 acres of vines the following year on a north facing slope that captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. John played a leading role in the renaissance of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine-producing region, as it had been 50 years since the Valley had produced any wine, and duly established himself as a giant of the Australian wine industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the first vintage in 1976, Mount Mary has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. John established a stellar reputation, with the winery's small (3000 case) production selling out quickly each year. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and John's fastidious respect for the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mount Mary Vineyard estate wines are premium handcrafted wines produced in limited quantities. \u003c\/span\u003eThe four wines are Quintet, Triolet (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle), Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The first two wines are classic Bordeaux blends, while the latter two are varieties traditionally grown and made in Burgundy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Mary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and today has around 40 acres under vine planted to 18 grape varieties. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, who died in 2006. His son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has held the role of Head Winemaker since 2011. \"It's axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” James Halliday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2008, in response to changing environmental conditions and a desire to evaluate new varieties, Mount Mary established additional vineyard areas on the estate and planted a number of varieties that have traditionally been grown in the Rhône Valley. The varieties planted include three white grapes, Marsanne, Roussanne and Clairette and four red grapes, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. In 2014 Mount Mary released two new wines under the Marli Rusell label, named after Marli Middleton (nee Russell), wife of John and co-founder of Mount Mary. One is a blend of the three white Rhône varietals, the other a blend of the four red Rhône varietals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"More than half the land area of Mount Mary is not directly related to wine production. The health of our property is of primary concern and we have the long-term objective of being self-sufficient in energy and water. We are also keen to limit our impact on the environment through revegetation and weed control. Despite the many challenges that have been presented to us over the past few years, progress toward our environmental goals continues. We are on a journey of continuous improvement and while we still have a long way to go to reach all of our goals, great progress has been made in with our planting program and our water and energy system designs. Work has begun on the reticulation of our harvested water supplies, the modernisation of our winery wastewater management and the energy efficiency of our winery. Our revegetation areas are already attracting increased numbers of native birds and our Snow Gum conservation area is looking good. We are continuing with our program of collecting a variety of native seed for propagation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ultimate goal of our environmental works is to be energy and water efficient, relying less on outside supply, to provide additional habitat for native species, and to limit our negative impacts by containing and treating waste products on site. Renewable power, water collection and recycling, and redesigned facilities are at the centre of these improvements.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are not certified biodynamic or organic we have a very keen interest in soil health and improving the environment around us. We are striving for a sustainable and robust viticultural system to ensure the long-term future of our site and the continual evolution of our wines. To help with this vision we adopt many viticultural practices, which include spreading compost in order to manipulate the soil microbiology and increase soil organic matter, along with spreading small amounts of organic fertilisers, and in some blocks mulching undervine with straw to increase soil water retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe like to minimize the use of machinery in our vineyard in order to reduce the amount of soil compaction within the vine row. Cover crops are sown down every alternate row which helps to increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and provide a home for the many beneficial insects which play an important role in pest management. We continue to strive towards a spray program that only involves chemical use when absolutely necessary. We are focused on doing these things to ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.\" Mount Mary \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896868344049,"sku":"","price":900.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Mount-Mary-Quintet-2004-1500ml_6f77eafc-46c1-43cb-922f-48f41fc09413.jpg?v=1697411378"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/collections\/b2_c6aa4f3e-6853-4588-a2ec-a25f9a16f387.jpg?v=1660636399","url":"https:\/\/canterburywines.au\/collections\/yarra-valley-reds.oembed?page=6","provider":"Canterbury Wines","version":"1.0","type":"link"}