We established Rupert’s Ridge in 2003 on 100 acres of rolling hills at Redesdale, about 100 km north of Melbourne in the Heathcote wine growing region, famous for its Shiraz.

We named the property after our Great Dane Mastiff, Rupert, who thought he had died and gone to heaven having 100 acres to roam and the planting of a vineyard to supervise.

We planted Shiraz, Viognier and Vermentino (an Italian white which is so easy to drink sitting in the sun on one of those wonderful lazy into the evening luncheons.

11,500 vines were planted individually and with care. A great deal of time was taken to ensure that the vines were in the right position with regard to sun, wind, frost and views. One thing we learned is that you can’t make fine wine from inferior grapes and great fruit comes from happy and healthy vines.

Our plan was to sell most of the grapes each year and make small vintages for the first four years until we had established top quality vines, fruit and wine quality. Alan Cooper from Cobaw Ridge agreed to be our wine maker.

2006 Vintage

We produced a small quantity of Shiraz, which we released in June 2010. We were very pleased with the rating by James Halliday: Shiraz 2006 Deeply coloured; rich black fruit and licorice aromas lead into a full-bodied palate supported by firm, gently savoury tannins; will be long lived. Diam. 13.5% alc. Rating 93 To 2021

2007 Vintage

Again we produced a small quantity of Shiraz, which we released early this year. Review by James Halliday: Shiraz 2007 Blackberry, blackcurrant and licorice aromas are replicated on the medium-bodied palate, with savoury tannins asserting themselves on the finish. Patience will reward. Diam 14% alc. Rating 90 To 2015

2008 Vintage

Again we produced a small quantity of Shiraz, which has not yet been released.

2009 Vintage

Unfortunately, the February 2009 bushfire destroyed our house and machinery and affected some of the vineyard. In order to reduce the stress on the vines, all the fruit was dropped. 2010 returned to a good vintage.