First Growth is only produced in vintages where fruit quality and varietal typicity are deemed to be exceptional.
The Terra Rossa over limestone soils of southern Coonawarra have long been recognised as one of Australia’s best locations to grow the finest of red grape varieties; the cool climate provides extended ripening for wonderful fruit expression, depth and complexity.

Our ‘Abbey’ estate vineyard is located on this brilliant strip of soil and is predominantly planted to Reynell Selection Cabernet Sauvignon - original cuttings from Bordeaux. These vines, planted in 1985, are the backbone of our First Growth.

Harvested during March and April 2018, fruit for our First Growth was fermented in a 9T closed-static-fermenter for 36 days (fermentation lasting 10 days before the parcels were topped and sealed). This extended maceration encourages tannin structure and increases ageing potential. After time on skins the wine was pressed to a prestigious selection of new Chateau Barriques, and Hogsheads sourced from renowned Bordeaux cooperages Seguin Moreau and Taransaud. The wine was then matured in oak for 18 months to create fine grained tannins and produce a tightly structured wine with the potential to improve with correct cellaring in excess of 20 years.