|
|
The Vines had a passionate
interest in wine and winemaking, so it was hardly surprising that they
ventured into their first vintage in 1980. Like many fledgling grape-growers,
they had planted a "fruit salad". Their principal wine was a
blend - Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot with single varietals in
Riesling and Chardonnay. The wines were made for their consumption, but
in reality they made more than they could consume, so many of their friends
gained the benefit. The 1993 Vintage saw
2.8 tonnes processed, by 2003 this has increased to 36 tonnes with a further
12 tonnes on contract for others. The 1993 and 1994 vintages were completed
in temporary accommodation. Wes has a Science
Degree and a Diploma of Agriculture. He has taught Horticulture in secondary
schools. Grape-growing and winemaking provided an application for his
formal training. He has read widely on winemaking techniques, and traveled
in both Australia and Europe to further his knowledge and expertise. He
has gained from his relationship with other winemakers, who have provided
constructive feedback over many years. Wes has a passion
for making clean wines where concentrated fruit flavors have priority.
Ben Canaider in the Wine Regions of Victoria booklet observed "Wes
Vine's careful, thoughtful wine making lets the lovely fruit qualities
of the wines speak intelligently and rewardingly. The spicy, minerally
Chardonnay shows some class; and the Pinot Noir is a velvety gently tannic
and earthy wine with an enjoyable yet not insubstantial weight and texture.
Shiraz and Cabernet are also quite fine. Not to be missed". Wes and Pamela's son Steve and wife Jacqui have developed a 2 ha vineyard within five minutes drive from the winery. They are taking a more active role in the grape production and winemaking as their production increases. Mandurang Valley Wines is a family business where Pamela runs the cellar door with meals, Wes is the wine maker, Steve is the viticulturalist and emerging winemaker and Jacqui assists in the vineyard and at the cellar door. Grandsons Tristan
and Oliver are waiting in the wings. |
|||
![]() |
||||