David Paxton ‘was the proper Chemical Ali’ back in the early days of grape growing at Paxton Wines in the McLaren Vale, South Australia. A strict adherent to the chemical calender, Paxton – who originally grew almonds until making the switch to grapes in the 1980’s – wanted to be known as the best. His … Continue reading The Gentle Evolution of Paxton Vineyards
Sorry to keep harping on about Rootstock (2013) – it’s just that it was such a bloody good event! While I was there I was able to sit down with wine journalist and writer, Max Allen to discuss a few things which related to the the event itself: biodynamics versus conventional agriculture and the rise … Continue reading Real Wine Drinkers Are All Punks…
For a Wine Idealist, the last few days have been like living in a dreamscape… almost three consecutive days of total immersion in the world of wine. A world filled with passionate people, exciting energy and incredible imbibing, that all culminated towards one central theme… that real wine is the best wine. The 7th Annual Organic … Continue reading Real Wine is the Best Wine… OWS and Rootstock 2013
I spent Sunday (17th February) wandering around soaking up the energy and positive vibes of the sustainable wine festival, Rootstock, in Sydney… It was a fantastic event, full of passion and enthusiasm, personality and character… and amazing tasting wine! So, before I post my new narrative about the event, and the days leading up to … Continue reading Three Questions for Rootstock…
Central Otago wine country, a part of the world that bombards you with relentless beauty and stunning vistas. Gigantic, snow specked mountains separate the land from the sky, and surround you from all sides as you drive alongside the glacial blue waters of Lake Dunstan, in towards Cromwell – the suburban hub of Otago wine country. Following the signposts … Continue reading Pioneering Patience – Rudi Bauer & Quartz Reef Wines.
I used to be one of those Australian’s – you know, the one’s that don’t bother with countries that are too close to their own to really care to go and take a look. Much like many Brits that don’t quite appreciate the fact that they’re on Europe’s doorstep and, instead, prefer to come over and visit … Continue reading Mountains/Wine/People – The Beautiful Central Otago…
“To make the best wines possible,”… It was at this moment that I thought, ‘I should probably try a few (if not all) of these Macquariedale wines,’ and see, or rather taste for myself just how good they actually are. Ross led me over to the cellar door tasting bar. A small, but beautifully timbered … Continue reading A Visit to Macquariedale: Part Two
This week, I made my way out via the Lovedale road to Hunter Valley Wine Country – the oldest wine region in Australia, and the most recognisable Australian wine region in the world. Yep, even more so than the Barossa – in fact, it even boasts some of the world’s oldest vines. I was heading … Continue reading A Visit To Macquariedale: Part One
