Rutherglen is internationally renowned for its fortified wines - rich muscats, aperas and ports - and equally respected for producing powerful, character-filled red table wines. From both a vineyard and winemaking perspective, it’s a region we’re proud to call home.

Our Gooramadda vineyard lies east of Rutherglen, stretching across 200 acres (80 hectares) of gently rising land toward Mt Ochentyre. The soils here are red loam over shale rock - tough, “hungry” ground that makes the vines work hard. That struggle limits over-cropping and concentrates flavour, resulting in smaller yields and more intense fruit.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif, Muscat and Shiraz are planted across the site, with rolling slopes and subtle valleys creating natural variations in aspect. These differences deliver distinct flavour profiles within the same variety, adding depth and flexibility when it comes time to blend.

Long, hot summers define Gooramadda and help produce the bold, full-flavoured wines the region is known for. To support the vines through these conditions, we use carefully selected trellising systems and balanced irrigation. A modern watering setup ensures vines receive exactly what they need - no more, no less - using water efficiently while maintaining vine health.

Today, our commitment to responsible viticulture was formally recognised when the Rutherglen vineyard achieved Freshcare accreditation as an Australian Wine Industry Sustainable Practice vineyard.

And yes, Gooramadda really is “a bit like Texas” - long rows, big blocks, plenty of grapes at vintage, and a vineyard so expansive it’s easy to lose your bearings on a first visit. It also happens to provide a stunning backdrop for on-site celebrations and rustic country weddings.

Our King Valley vineyard sits in Oxley, nestled along the banks of the King River in the lower plains of the region. Covering 14 acres (6 hectares), the site is planted predominantly on sandy loam soils over a clay base - a combination that encourages balanced vine growth and premium fruit quality.

The loam provides strong water-holding capacity, while the clay layer limits vine roots from reaching the water table. This controlled water access is key, as vines with unlimited water tend to produce larger crops but lower-quality fruit.

Proximity to the river brings another advantage. Cooling night-time breezes roll along the river corridor, allowing the vines to rest, recover and retain moisture ahead of hot summer days. This mesoclimate is particularly valuable during the ripening period and plays a major role in shaping the freshness and structure of our wines.

Our vines are grown using a range of trellising systems, each tailored to suit individual varieties and seasonal conditions. Canopy management is adjusted to handle everything from wet seasons to extreme heat events, ensuring consistent fruit quality year after year.

Oxley’s diversity is reflected in the vineyard itself. A wide mix of classic and lesser-known varieties allows us to craft multiple wine styles, from familiar favourites to a few rare birds for the curious drinker.

Varieties planted include:
Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Muscat à Petits Grains (Brown Muscat), Gamay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Lagrein, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec.