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Macedon, VIC
Cool Climate/Elevation 500-690m
The first vines were planted in the Macedon region (also known as the Macedon Ranges) by Tom Lazar at Virgin Hills above Kyneton. The area was also pioneered by Knight’s Granite Hills and Cope-Williams. The Macedon region, an hour’s drive north east of Melbourne, is regarded as one of the coolest mainland wine regions, so cool that viticulture was considered a risky venture. By the early 1980s a number of enthusiasts had already debunked the theory and planted vineyards, mostly to the early ripening varieties Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This is a region that is, for Australia, at relatively high elevation. Mount Macedon is 1000 metres high. The region is largely of volcanic origin with skeletal soils ranging from grey granitic sandy loams to weathered basalt clay. The topography is undulating, sometimes steep, with the best sites in the lee of the prevailing winds. Most of the vineyards are elevated to around 500 metres with frost risks fairly high in early spring and late autumn. Elevated at 690 metres Mount Macedon is the highest vineyard. In some colder sites vignerons use overhead sprinklers. Rainfall is around 890mm per year. Ripening is the major issue. Some early plantings of Cabernet have been grafted over to Pinot Noir. The region has become noted for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and sparkling wines. Bindi, Hanging Rock and Virgin Hills are the most prominent secondary market wines although Cope-Williams, Cleveland and Rochford are also well regarded.
Pinot Noir
Macedon is quickly achieving a strong cult following for its beautifully aromatic, well- concentrated and balanced Pinot Noirs. Bindi and Rochford are leading the way. The region has yet to show a strong body of work.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot and Malbec Blend
The only Cabernet driven wine making an impression is Virgin Hills. Its vineyard is planted on a marginal site. New ownership and a commitment to improving quality may indeed bring this wine back to its glory days. They are restrained styles with blackcurrant/cedar aromas and a compact palate structure.
Andrew Caillard MW, Langton's
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