In 1978, Bob Nixon had a vision. He recognised that the cool climate of the Macedon Ranges had the ideal attributes for exceptional wines and had an idea to plant grapes. He was right.
Nearly 40 years later, Gisborne Peak Winery is home to a perfectly primed and pruned vineyard, producing some of the region’s highest quality drops.
Thirty years ago, Bob was joined on his venture by his wife Barbara, a Wisconsin native who found the pull of Macedon Ranges (and Bob) too much to ignore.
“Together we made a dream team,” says Barbara, “with Bob looking after the vines and me looking after guests.
“Our investment in the entire winery experience now has Gisborne Peak at the top of many must-visit lists.”
Just 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Gisborne Peak is at the southern end of the Macedon wine region, and its cellar door is open every day.
“Here you can taste the delicious wines on offer, while enjoying a wood-fired pizza or shared tasting platter of smoked meat, cheese and dips and admiring the stunning vineyard views,” says Barbara.
The Gisborne Peak portfolio includes cool-climate wines, such as chardonnay, semillon, riesling, pinot rose, shiraz, pinot noirand muscat.
“Red drinkers will likely enjoy the shiraz, made using grapes from the nearby Pyrenees and Grampians region. The estate-grown pinot noir has flavours of cherries and strawberries, but with the perfect level of balance and refinement,” Barbara says.
“For white lovers, the round, fresh palate and gentle balance of acid in the 2015 chardonnay is a perfect match with creamy sauces or cheese platters. Pair it with the cellar door’s baked brie to see how the complementary flavours work together.”
The winery also has eco cottages, powered by the wind and sun, in which to stay – where luxury, relaxation and sustainability come together. With views over the vines and nearby lake, each cottage is self-contained with a private balcony and all the mod-cons for an excellent escape.
And have a chat to one of the friendly staff at the cellar door about the Adopt a Vine program. This innovative approach allows you to become a vigneron without a million dollar investment.
Gisborne Peak Winery and Eco Cottages, 69 Short Road, Gisborne. Inquiries: 5428 2228 or www.gisbornepeakwines.com.au
