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Our Story
Medhurst Wines is the realisation of the long held and shared vision of Ross and Robyn Wilson to own a property in the Yarra Valley and produce high quality wines. Ross was CEO of Southcorp and drove the company’s acquisition of Penfolds, Lindemans and Wynns in 1990. He has remained passionate about wine ever since.
Ross and Robyn Wilson spent years looking for the perfect site and for many reasons they jointly decided on the Yarra Valley. Robyn Wilson spent her childhood here, and the Australian and international status of this excellent cool climate wine region and its incredible beauty, helped make their decision.
The Medhurst Vineyard was also particularly chosen for its favourable micro-climate, north facing slopes, good drainage and magnificent aspect. It was planted in 2000 with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
With the sole objective of making the best wine possible, careful vineyard management ensures yields are low, averaging two tonnes per acre and providing intensely flavoured fruit.
The Wine
Each parcel of fruit receives the same care and attention in the winery as in the vineyard. New and older French oak is used after considering the potential for each parcel. The wines that result are released only when they are ready and are of the standard to which Medhurst is committed. At all times quality is paramount.
As well as each of the varieties grown – Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz – Medhurst makes a Rosé from its low cropped Cabernet and Shiraz fruit. With 15 hectares planted, quantities are limited but the passion and care that goes into the wines is boundless.
Our new state of the art winery has been designed by Folk Architects and has recently won the Victorian Architectural Award for commercial design. The winery features underground barrel storage and sits in harmony with its hillside setting.
The Wilson family are committed to Medhurst. It is a long term journey and as the vines age the wines will continue to evolve. They will always be the best wines that can possibly be made from the Medhurst vineyard.
Rohan Smith
Our Chief Winemaker, Rohan Smith, has a strong belief that we are custodians of the land that we farm, to ensure sustainability for now and generations to come.
He has a passion for soil and vines and making wine that is reflective of the site from which it comes.
To him, having perfect fruit from the vineyard is the cornerstone of a producing wines of purity, structure and balance. Following a successful career as a classical musician and in the music industry, Rohan turned his attention to his love for wine, winemaking and working the dirt.
To drive this passion, he relocated to the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, undertaking a Bachelor of Wine Science through Charles Sturt University (graduating as Dux with a University Medal) and has worked for numerous vineyards and wineries across the Peninsula before taking his particular passion for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay North to join Medhurst in the Yarra Valley.
Rohan is a judge at shows such Melbourne Royal Wine Awards, Yarra Valley, Gippsland and Macedon Wine shows as well as being involved with The Australian Pinot Noir Challenge.