Jessica Micallef
A Lancefield winery is one of the great wineries in Australia.
Wilimee Winery was one of three Macedon Ranges wineries named on the Young Gun of Wine’s 2020 list of the top 50 Australian winemakers.
Lyons Will Estate in Lancefield and Dilworth and Allain in Romsey also made the top 50.
Wilimee Winery owner and winemaker Ben Ranken said it was an honour to be recognised in such a “high regard” for a third year running.
“It’s pretty exciting, it’s lovely,” he said.
“We are fortunate enough to be in the top 50 in the last three years and each time it’s with a different group of other Macedon Ranges wineries.”
The Lancefield winery is no stranger to success, it made the final 12 of the Young Gun of Wine award last year for its chardonnay and pinot noir.
Mr Ranken said the secret to the perfect glass of wine was balance.
“You need great quality grapes,” he said.
“In the Macedon Ranges, we are the coolest region in mainland Australia, from a climate point of view.
“It gives our fruit more time to mature, to become richer to create interesting flavours.
“It’s also a great place to drink some wine.”
Mr Ranken has been a winemaker for 20 years and has owned his Lancefield winery for six years.
“I enjoy the variety of the job,” he said.
“One day you are inside, doing office work. Then the next day you are outside in the vineyards or the winery.
“Also, the people you get to talk to in the industry, whether it’s in restaurants, bars of cafes, is awesome. You come across people from all walks of life.“
Voting is now open for the Young Gun of Wine’s People’s Choice award. Voting closes on Monday, June 1.
To vote: bit.ly/2vsscFF
