The small regional appellation of Orange can lay claim to being one of Australia’s most interesting wine regions. It is the only appellation based on altitude - beginning at 600 metres above seal level, to be precise.
Fruit from any vines planted below this cannot be labelled as coming from Orange, but rather must adopt the more broadly used ‘Central Ranges’ designation.
Because of such altitude (in fact, extending up to well over 1000 metres above sea level) Orange can be considered, by any measure, a cool climate wine region - despite being just over three and a half hours from Sydney.
The region centres around the ancient volcano, Mount Canobolas, and as you might expect when ancient volcanic soils and cool temperatures combine with long sunshine hours, some truly delicious wines are made in the area.
Featured Wines
Chardonnay
2017
Fruit from two exquisite Chardonnay vineyards, one at 960 metres and one at 650 metres. Wild yeast fermented, partially in old French oak, six months on fine lees. The epitome of cool climate Chardonnay. Pristine pure fruit, fine minerality, elegance and balance.
Shiraz
2016
From a distinguished single vineyard at 650 metres above sea level. Wild yeast fermented, partially in old French oak, eighteen months on lees. Rich in texture, intense and deep in character. Vibrant dark fruit and dense, enveloping tannin.