Nestled in the mountains of northeastern Victoria, just outside the picturesque town of Beechworth, lays the Savaterre vineyard.
The site was “discovered“ in 1996 by Keppell Smith, owner, and winemaker, after an expansive search through Australia’s quality wine regions. The mild summer days, and cool climate elevation combined with the rolling foothills of the Victorian Alps was the magic “terroir” combination sought by Keppell.
Intensely focused on the creation of outstanding, individualistic wines far removed from the mainstream, Keppell looks more to the wines, winemaking, and viticulture of the Old World as his inspiration. Ranging from vineyard aspects to the use of natural yeasts and the finest French barriques, he combines the art and the science of winemaking in his drive to produce the finest wines.
The region itself is blessed with beautiful views, fantastic local produce, outstanding dining, and of course the historic town of Beechworth. It has a growing wine presence and has recently been recognised as an independent wine region.
Matured 18 months in Burgundian oak (25-30% new). Take a deep breath, and inhale; the scent of mountain wildflowers, violet, crushed raspberry, and cherry is enthralling, addictive even. Intense and tight on the palate, it opens to layers of clean, bright red and black fruits, enhanced by savoury spice, warm background oak, and ripe, textural tannins. A savoury, ferrous, and mineral finish offers yet another layer on this most complex pinot. Outstanding.