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Autumn is well and truly here and with Easter just around the corner, there is plenty to see and do at Montalto. While we're busy harvesting our 2023 grapes, there will events throughout April including dining in The Restaurant and The Piazza, picnics on the estate and more!
“At the time of writing (in mid-March), we are at the mid-point in the 2023 grape harvest, having picked most of our fruit ‘down the hill’ in Tuerong, and waiting for our ‘up the hill’ fruit in Red Hill to finish the ripening journey. There is a daily process of testing, review and communication between Dan in the vineyard and Simon in the winery, to ensure we pick at the optimal time for fruit quality. The grapes that we have brought in so far are in beautiful condition, although La Nina has meant there is less of it than we would like.”
Heidi Williams, CEO
Working in the wine industry for over 20 years, Kim joined Montalto, from neighbouring winery Red Hill Estate, in 2017. A passionate leader in her field, Kim has worked tirelessly to create wine experiences that take customers on a journey of discovery with each and every tasting. Sought after across the estate for her depth of knowledge and incredible palate, Kim’s enthusiasm for all things Montaltodoesn’t end at the conclusion of her working week. Inspired by her achievements, both of Kim’schildren have worked alongside her at Montalto with one continuing to do so until this day.
“Autumn is the most beautiful season on the estate, the vines become a patchwork of red orange and yellow and the king parrots gorge themselves on the ripening olives. As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler, here’s what I will be drinking.”
Rose is definitely a must for those warmer days, as we cling to the remnants of summer. Served icy cold, it's dangerously easy to drink with its aromas of summer berries. The best match to enjoy this wine is simply a second bottle, because one is never enough.
Simon makes magnificent Pinots, and each of his single vineyards has their own unique personalities. Our Tuerong vineyard is our warmest site, and produces some dark and broody fruit characters. The 52% whole bunch fermentation introduces some gorgeous herbaceous notes that balance out any sweet fruit characteristics.
I highly recommend enjoying a massive glass of this with a kangaroo fillet and smoked mashed potatoes (greens optional).
Sourced from the same vineyard as the Pinot Noir, this Syrah is a classic cool climate style, with some surprising blackberry and spice on the nose. Its fine tannin structure makes it softer and more medium bodied than some warmer climate Syrahs, making it a better match for foods with more subtle flavours, while still being able to cut through a heavier braise or stew.
I always refer to this wine as liquid velvet and, in my opinion, is best enjoyed curled up in front of an open fire on a cool night with a cheese and charcuterie platter.
To make planning your Easter break easier, here’s how you can spend the day with us in Red Hill.
And don’t forget Tucks is open across the Easter weekend from 11am – 5pm, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th April.
We’re also excited to announce from April 2023, for an extremely limited time only, Tucks is installing a state-of-the-art, all weather, heated marquee specifically designed to host exclusive events throughout the cooler months whilst still enjoying the photographer’s dream that is the Tucks property. The arrival of this pop up space means capacity for events is now an impressive 150 people.
Books & Ideas: Alexis Wright, presented in partnership with The Wheeler Centre
As part of the 2023 Sorrento Writers Festival
Celebrate Alexis Wright’s masterful new novel over a long lunch and in-depth conversation at Montalto’s award-winning Restaurant.
Since 2002, we’ve invited guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of our estate at a collection of secluded picnic sites – all of which have been specifically chosen for their unique and stunning locations.
Midweek picnics are a particularly peaceful time to enjoy the estate so if you’re lucky enough to have a day off during the week, book a picnic, sit back and enjoy award-winning wines and estate-grown produce at your leisure.
This year’s breathtaking exhibition runs until 30th April 2023 so ensure you leave plenty of time to wander the Sculpture Trail during your next visit to Montalto.
All finalist’s works (except for our winner Marcus Tatton’s ‘Terestri Anenemi’) are for sale so if you see something you like so much you just have to take it home, please speak with any of our friendly team.
We look forward to welcoming you to Montalto this April,
John & Wendy Mitchell, Heidi Williams
