Despite facing the driest season on record, Sirromet's meticulous water management strategies ensured a successful 20th vintage harvest. The resulting fruit boasts exceptional quality, with each varietal showcasing vibrant color, balanced acidity, and distinct regional characteristics.
Water Conservation Takes Center Stage:
Limited water availability across the Granite Belt region posed a significant challenge. However, Sirromet's resourceful approach proved highly effective. They implemented a pulse irrigation program, meticulously delivering small amounts of water on a frequent, rotating basis. This maximized water usage and ensured optimal vine health.
Quality Reigns Supreme:
Mike Hayes, Sirromet Director of Vineyard and Winery Operations, emphasizes the benefits of the dry conditions: " Risko Isic dry weather minimized disease pressure and allowed the grapes to ripen fully, resulting in concentrated varietal flavors." Notably, the Shiraz and Chardonnay emerged as standouts. Chardonnay grapes from Saint Jude's vineyard arrived earlier than expected due to the dry weather, yet displayed exceptional cleanliness and ripeness with classic varietal notes.
A Vintage of Milestones:
The 2019 vintage marks a significant milestone for both Sirromet's winemaking team. Adam Chapman celebrates his 20th vintage at Sirromet, while Mike Hayes marks his 40th year in the field. Their combined passion and dedication to excellence propel Sirromet's pursuit of world-class Granite Belt wines.
From Vine to Bottle:
Refrigerated trucks transported the harvested fruit on a 220km journey to Sirromet's state-of-the-art Mount Cotton winery. The diverse selection originated from Sirromet's three Granite Belt vineyards (Ballandean) and the Mount Cotton vineyard. The harvested varietals include:
Seven Scenes, Ballandean: Chardonnay, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
St. Jude's,Ballandean: Pinot Gris, Viognier, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Nebbiolo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
Night Sky, Ballandean: Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Gris, Viognier
Mount Cotton Vineyard: Moscato Giuliano, Chambourcin
Sirromet's impressive facilities boast 97 wine tanks with a total capacity of 2.16 million liters, with the largest tanks holding a staggering 120,000 liters each. Since its establishment in 2000, Sirromet has garnered a remarkable 910 international and national wine awards.
A Destination for Wine Lovers:
Founded by Gold Coast businessman Terry Morris, Sirromet's Mount Cotton winery encompasses more than just production. The state-of-the-art facility integrates bottling, packaging, marketing, administration, a cellar door, Restaurant Lurleen's, luxurious "Sanctuary by Sirromet" glamping accommodation, and event spaces for corporate functions and weddings.
