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WINTER ARRIVES ON THE GRANITE BELT

HI EVERYONE,

The cold weather is finally arriving on the Granite Belt and, while we have had very little rain on the vineyard since December, the season is definitely beginning to shift into its winter phase. The vines are now well and truly settling into dormancy after what has been another busy and rewarding Vintage period, and the vineyard is starting to take on that familiar winter appearance across the property.

With the sub-zero temperatures also comes the start of pruning season, which officially begins this week. Pruning is one of the most important tasks we undertake in the vineyard each year, as it helps shape the vines for the upcoming growing season and plays a big role in fruit quality and vine health. It is always a significant job for the team and marks the beginning of the next cycle in the vineyard calendar.

Behind the scenes, Brad has been hard at work in the workshop preparing all of the equipment needed for the months ahead. Along with setting up machinery for pruning, he has also been busy carrying out maintenance and repairs on tractors and implements following the demands of Vintage. A lot of wear and tear happens over harvest, so winter is an important time to ensure everything is serviced, reliable, and ready for the next stage of vineyard operations.

Although winter can appear quieter from the outside, there is still plenty happening across the vineyard every day. The cooler conditions bring their own challenges, but they also give us an opportunity to prepare carefully for the growing season ahead and continue improving our processes and vineyard management practices.

This year, I’m also hoping to put together a few short videos to share with everyone throughout the season. The idea is to give a bit more insight into what happens up here on the Granite Belt and explain some of the procedures and work that take place behind the scenes in the vineyard. Hopefully it will be a good way to showcase the effort that goes into each season and keep everyone connected with what’s happening on the ground.

Looking forward to sharing more updates with you all over the coming months.

Phil & The Vineyard Team

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT SIRROMET?

I have been at Sirromet since September 2022, so nearly four years now. It has gone really quick!

IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

If I could live anywhere, it would probably be Spain or Thailand. Spain for the lifestyle, food, wine culture and long, relaxed evenings, and Thailand for the energy, warmth, incredible food and the balance between city life and beach living.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

In my spare time I like to read, travel whenever I get the chance, hang out with friends, and eat good food. I’m always on the lookout for new places to try.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE VARIETAL OF WINE?

I tend to lean towards wines from the Granite Belt region. I love how they show the coolclimate character but still have really good depth and structure.

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT FPPD & WINE BREAK.

My perfect food and wine break would be a well-cooked steak paired with a glass of Le Sauvage Syrah. It’s the kind of combination that just hits the spot every time!

WHAT FOOD AND WINE MATCH CAN YOU RECOMMEND?

A granit Vermentino paired with fresh seafood is a standout combination. Calamari is my favourite with it as the acidity and freshness of the wine really keeps everything feeling light and vibrant.