Our Review
Sutton Grange, a 400ha property, in the foothills of Leanganook near Harcourt, combines a horse training facility with grape growing and winemaking, as well as a venue for corporate events. This multi-functional enterprise was acquired in 1996 by Peter Sidwell, a Melbourne businessman with horse racing and breeding interests. The wine side of the business dates back to ’98 and a chance lunch at the property with modern-day Bendigo wine pioneer, Stuart Anderson (founder Balgownie) and local winemaker, Alec Epis. Vines went in soon after, with Stuart Anderson’s Burgundy-born son-in-law, Gilles Lapalus, installed as winemaker in ’01. He introduced biodynamics to the property and planted Italian varieties suited to a changing climate. The experienced wine-making hand of Melanie Chester (ex Seppelt) from ‘15 took the Sutton Grange name to greater heights, regularly winning major trophies and accolades, most notably for her Syrah. In ’22 Mel passed the baton to Chris Smailes, (ex Blue Pyrenees Estate). Exports to the UK, the US, Canada and Switzerland. -JENI PORT
About
Sutton Grange is located on the southern edge of the Bendigo region, and for many years was known for its thoroughbred racing facility. Since planting of the vineyards in 1998 it is now recognised for the wines it produces. The Sutton Grange vineyard is cultivated using organic and biodynamic methods, and the wines are traditionally handcrafted by winemaker Melanie Chester. The wines combine distinctive style and interpretation with our organically grown estate fruit creating wines that express the uniqueness and characteristics of the site. Producing two labels, Fairbank – the original name of the property in the 19th Century, and our Estate range. Wines under the Fairbank label are crafted to be approachable, fresh and fruit driven. The Estate wines strongly demonstrate the terroir and characteristics of the farm, also included in the range are some less known varieties such as Aglianico.
Cellar Door
Information
Open Every Sunday for wine tastings, live music and regional tasting platters.
Hours
W'ends 11–5
Details are correct at time of writing
Please check winery website for up to date details
Food
Details are correct at time of writing
Please check winery website for up to date details
Details
| Rating |
|
| Winemaker |
Chris Smailes |
| Established |
1998 |
| Dozens |
6000 |
| Vineyards (area) |
12 ha |
| Viticulturist |
N/A |
| Opening Hours |
W'ends 11–5 |
| Address |
Carnochans Road, Sutton Grange, Vic 3448
|
| Telephone |
(03) 8672 1478
|
| Website |
www.suttongrange.com.au
|
