Tony a physicist and Bernice a Tafe lecturer bought their property in the lovely Preston Valley “on spec” with no idea what they would do with it. They thought a ‘few grapes’ might be an interesting thing to do as both showed more than a passing interest in wine. Mandalay is situated in a valley with its own microclimate. Cooler than Donnybrook at night the vines ripen considerably later which adds to their flavour profile. Initially the plan was to grow Sauvignon Blanc but they were advised against that by a hockey playing mate of Tony’s. Consequently they chose Shiraz and consider it does extremely well on the site. Zinfandel was planted as well because they loved the variety and some Cabernet from Bernice’s brother in law’s vineyard at Karridale. Chardonnay from Karridale was also planted and is quite outstanding on this site.__Latterly, some of the Shiraz hs been grafted over to Muscat a Petit Grains and Durif. The first Moscato, 2011, is proving very popular. 2012 will be the first vintage of Durif
