Presenting a series of Sunday's showcasing the stories from Wine, Beer & Spirits of the Fleurieu.

These are reproduced with permission from Soul Publishing and Rojina Duval.

These stories feature prominent farmers, fishermen, producers and chefs – from Port Noarlunga to Cape Jervis – along with their favourite recipes and tips. Enjoy!

Sabella Vineyards is a family-owned grapegrowing and wine-producing company, which has been in McLaren Vale for over 40 years. The key face, founder and managing director of the Sabella Vineyards brand is Joe Petrucci. His iconic handlebar moustache, beaming smile and business mentality are well-known throughout the region.

“I’m always eager to help with all things McLaren Vale-related,” says Joe. “My passion is deeply rooted in the area and as long as I can see a benefit to the region and its locals, I will always be willing to offer my support.”

As a young man growing up in Melbourne, Joe visited family friends in McLaren Vale. His love for the area grew and he saw the potential for relocating his home and young family.

Predominantly a grape grower for 25 years in McLaren Vale, Joe was always considered to be a bearer of good fruit. Then in 1999 his dream of launching his Sabella Vineyards wine brand became a reality – "his own wine, from his own grapes, from his own vineyard.”

“The diversity in the industry is what makes us love what we do,” says Joe. “Working with your hands and then reaping the rewards of the hard work put in throughout the year as vintage approaches, is at the heart of it all. The outcomes in barrels and bottles are all reflected in ways that people who are not in this industry find hard to comprehend.

“Grape-growing and winemaking are skills that can’t be learned just through textbooks. They’re skills that require a hands-on approach and are felt in the soul. When they’re felt so deeply that they’re reflected in your produce, that’s the reward – nothing else compares to that.” 

CELLAR DOOR

“Our new cellar door and tasting room can be found in the old McLaren Vale Congregational Church – previously the Singing Gallery – Main Road in McLaren Vale. We are open for tasting and light meals on request – specialising in the Italian heritage that is part of the Sabella family. We hope to offer outside entertainment in the future as well!”

PAIRING

“Nero d’Avola – made from a Sicilian grape – is a favourite wine from the Sabella stable. A medium-bodied red wine, it goes especially well with lighter meals but can also hold its own with rustic, heavy servings of fare that warm the soul.” 

ADDRESS 133 Main Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171

WEBSITE

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