i took one of my project steering team to McLaren Vale yesterday while we had a long discussion about research methods and related matters. Decided to try to visit some places that I hadn't been, with some great results.
Paxton's is a family-owned winery just east of the highway on the way into McClaren Vale. They released their first vintage in 2005. The site is an old farm and it was fascinating to see and hear of its development since the 1800s. A great range of whites and reds. We were very impressed. Very nice Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, a range of Shiraz and a Shiraz Grenache. They also have imported cheeses on sale, although we didnt go there. The winery is certified biodynamic. And a lovelty setting. A wedding was being set up while we were there.
I was pretty pleased with this photo taken with Hipstamatic. I'm thinking of turning it into a cross stitch design as it looks like it would work really well. I wonder if I could sell kits at the winery...
A quick stop at an old favourite. One of the oldest wineries in the area and still family-owned. Just won a 'best in the world' award for their ACJ in London. Its Cab Sav, Shiraz and Petit Verdot. But at $60 a bottle we weren't buying. Once more playing with Hipstamatic through a glass door, hence a little blurry. i do like the 'watercolour' feel though. U have to add that they have very good prices on cases of not quite premium wines.
Another smaller family-owned winery down near Noon's. Nice Merlot, Grenache and Shiraz. They'd also just won a local award for their Tarrant, which was pretty good but dry ($30). I'm planning to go back for a proper taste when I'm not the designated driver.
For me this was the discovery of the day. Just up the dirt road from Shottesbrooke. We were in luck as the staff were away so the winemaker walked us through the wines, and we got to hear about vine age and transplants and soil types and rainfall. Everything tasted great, from Chardonnay to Grenache to Shiraz, Cab Sav and stunning $40 GNOB (Shiraz, Cab and Petit Verdot). Plus a $10/bottle Shiraz Cab called "The Canvas" that comes with unprinted adhesive labels that you can print and add to your wine. It tasted quite fine! Out the back is an art gallery, which a local artist was hanging with gorgeous bird paintings made with squid ink, beetroot juice and even paint! Lovely relaxed setting. Back soon with my next carload of tourists!
Lastly a quick trip to a favourite, Kay's, so my associate could buy some Muscat. Another of the oldest wineries in the region. A humble, friendly, non-corporate place to be. Every red is so good. Rick did come away with the $40 Cuthbert Cab Sav which is a killer wine...
The weather turned out not half bad.
We did talk work stuff all afternoon so there's no guilt involved...
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