'Established in 1985, the Tucks vines are planted in red volcanic clays with the elevation varying between 90 and 110 metres above sea level. A cooler site, which consistently delivers intensity of flavour and purity of fruit. Considered winemaking coaxes out what we think is the best expression of the site.'
Simon Black, Winemaker
In October 2017, Montalto owners, John, and Wendy Mitchell acquired the neighbouring vineyard, cellar door and label Tuck’s Ridge. The historic single vineyard was established in 1985 and is planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In 2004, one acre of Savagnin was added to complete the vineyard. Tucks Ridge has long been recognised as a top-quality Mornington Peninsula producer with the core focus on producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, together with the single vineyard Buckle wines.
The parent material of this vineyard is tertiary basalt from 20-40 million years ago, which gives rise to a red/brown ferrosol soil high in iron and magnesium. Fragmented weathered rocks rich in iron, appear at the surface on sections of the vineyard. These red volcanic clay soils are from where Red Hill derives its name. This unique site, with its north-facing aspect, captures the sun’s full rays and is protected from the prevailing southerly winds of our elevated, coastal climate.
