The story of Helen's Hill began long before a vine was ever planted in Coldstream. Two families with a love of farming running deep in their veins. The younger generation, careers and life having dragged them away, had always yearned to return to the life that created the fond memories of their youthful years.
And so when the opportunity arose in 1997 to combine a passion for farming and love of great wine, the Nalder and McIntosh families decided it was a chance too good to pass up. What you see when you enter the gates today is the product of that passion. A truly family run and owned vineyard with a passion for great viticulture and producing wines of quality and distinction.
Our philosophy on making our wine is simple. We take what Mother Nature gives us. We let the sun, the rain and the soil work its magic. Our small parcel of land in this part of the Yarra Valley is unique, this site cannot be replicated elsewhere and that is what we want you to experience. A minimalist approach once the fruit hits the winery allows us to accentuate this. Come and taste it for yourself.
A deep burnished red in colour, typical of the MV6 clone, this wine is subtle at first, as dark bramble fruits and strawberries and a hint of spice draw you in. Savoury and complex, its length is a standout as dried fruits, Yarra earthy tones and spices linger on the palate for what seems like forever.
A single block of MV6, whole-berry ferment (no whole bunches), matured for 11 months in French puncheons (40% new). Very much in the style of the cool vintage; elegant, savoury and very long in the mouth. Wild strawberry/cherry fruit is dusted with spices, dried herbs and cedary oak. A strong sense of place.
96 pts - James Halliday, Published 01 November 2020