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The origins of this small, organic winery,
situated approximately a half an hours drive south of
Adelaide, dates back to the early 1940s, when George
Cox decided to plant vines. The grenache vines, originally
grown as bush vines, are still thriving today and are
one of the few remaining early grenache plantings in
the McLaren Vale region. The old wood enhances the flavour
of the lovely red wines being created by the present
owners.
During the early years the hand picked harvest was delivered
to the Emu Winery at Morphett Vale. George sold the
property and the vineyard was neglected for some years.
During this time a lucerne patch was established which
has since been planted with Shiraz.
The property was purchased by Rino and
Greta Ozzella a few months after the bushfires of 1983.
The family home was built and Rino was determined to
re-establish the badly neglected vines. With the help
of his wife, using traditional knowledge handed down
from family in Italy, he began the job of restoring
the 6 acres of grenache.
In 1993 two more vineyards were purchased,
this time at Loxton. After 3 years of intensive hands
on experience it was decided to sell the riverland properties
to allow time for a more personal touch to the management
of the boutique vineyard. A planting of 4.5 acres of
shiraz was completed in 1996 and the lucerne patch,
1.5 acres, was planted with shiraz in 1999.
The vines are grown
on a westerly slope facing the sea, which ensures an
early ripening of the berries. The afternoon sun, sea
breezes and a mixture of light loamy soils with limestone
ridges, help to create premium fruit, producing rich
full bodied wines. Rino and Greta have been encouraged
after winning many medals including gold and champion
trophies.
The wines are estate grown and produced,
ensuring integrity of the organic status, from the vineyard
to the finished wines.
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