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!

“Shottesbrooke was started by my stepfather, Nick Holmes,” says Shottesbrooke Wines’ managing director and winemaker Hamish Maguire. “He planted his first vineyard at Myponga in 1981, then in 1994, he and I marked out and planted what is now our winery and vineyards at Bagshaws Road, McLaren Flat.”

From a small owner-operated traditional winemaking business, Shottesbrooke has grown into an operation which sees many people employed at McLaren Flat, as well as having offices in China and the United States.

“When talking about the business, I’m reminded of Nick’s passion and dedication to making sure that no corners were ever cut and he ensured that tasks were always properly completed. Shottesbrooke continues to have a ‘small business attitude’ and is supported by a team that is motivated by ‘getting things done’,” says Hamish.

“Put simply, we grow grapes, make wine and sell it to the world. Shottesbrooke is a dynamic, multi-faceted business that has grown exponentially over the last 40 years. We are partners with grape growers all over McLaren Vale, the Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek, and work closely with many other food and beverage producers through our restaurant, The Currant Shed.”

Speaking of working in McLaren Vale, Hamish describes himself as a ‘weather nut’: “I love the changing seasons of McLaren Vale – checking forecasts, watching the irrigation probes and getting a sense of how the weather patterns are changing. While most of my day is business focused, staying in tune with the environment and watching the vineyards come back to life in spring is truly a magical thing.

“As we know, the Fleurieu is a special place. I spend many months a year travelling overseas and the thing I think of most on my return, is an early morning walk at Maslins with Angas the dog, to clear my mind and remind myself of how good we have it.” 

Hamish goes on to mention the latest news for Shottesbrooke: “We’ve had some great accolades of late, being named as a fivestar rated winery by James Halliday in the 2021 Australian Wine Companion, and being a finalist in the Red Wine Producer of The Year category at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in the UK.

"We are also proud to have been recognised as Australia's Best Producer at the prestigious Mundus Vini Grand International Wine Awards Summer tasting earlier in the year.

“In other news, our newest releases include the 2020 Shottesbrooke Estate Series Grenache Rosé and the 2018 Shottesbrooke Estate Series Cabernet Sangiovese.” 

PAIRING

“Enjoy our 2016 Shottesbrooke Single Vineyard Series ‘Tom’s Block’ Shiraz with a seared ribeye steak, blue cheese butter and lightly steamed asparagus.”

CELLAR DOOR

“The Shottesbrooke cellar door is nestled amongst the company vineyards, with magnificent views to the surrounding Mount Lofty Ranges.

“Guests are welcome to taste at their leisure, or alternatively, enjoy one of our structured ancient soils tasting experiences, to gain an excellent insight into how McLaren Vale’s diverse and distinct geological makeup influences the wines made here.

"In addition, visitors can take some time out to unwind in the delightful courtyard garden with a glass of wine and a snack, or enjoy the picnic area that is available for private hire. Set away from cellar door, and situated amongst the vines beside the creek that runs through the property, the Picker's Hut is a quaint little rustic stone structure with a lawned area out the front – just the spot to enjoy a relaxing BYO picnic and bottle of Shottesbrooke wine.”

ADDRESS 101 Bagshaws Road, McLaren Flat

WEBSITE

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