Kirrihill Wines was created on a passion for fine wine and a desire to produce super premium wines equal to any. "We source fruit for our two ranges, Kirrihill Estates and Kirrihill Companions from some of Australia's most recognised wine regions, the Clare Valley, the Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek. This provides our wine making team led by David Mavor with a diversity of fruit supply, enabling the production of an exceptional array of premium wines equal to any in the world.
"Our winery is unlike any other in Australia. It has been purpose designed and built to provide the perfect environment for making great wines. The open-air winery without walls provides an inspiring 360-degree view of the vineyards and hills. The cantilevered roof and sailcloth provide shade for the stainless steel fermentation tanks and allow an abundance of natural light, creating a bright and open working environment.
The state-of-the-art complex has an emphasis on environmentally sound practices, including the recycling of waste water and grape marc into organic mulch for the vineyards. "The winery was established in 1999 to capitalise on the opportunities for contract processing that arose as a result of the unprecedented level of vineyard development in the prior five years. Vineyard expansion had outstripped the processing capability of the industry, which created the demand leading to the construction of the winery ready for the 2000 vintage.
Contract processing of grapes to any stage of the production cycle including storage. Currently Kirrihill Wines processes fruit for many of the large Australian wine companies as well as smaller local producers. Great wine begins in the vineyard. Super premium wines can only be made with super premium fruit. At Kirrihill Wines the winemakers work closely with selected grape growers, including Kirribilly Viticulture, to ensure the fruit meets the standards required for the high quality wines.
Cutting edge trellising technology such as Vertical Shoot Positioning provides the perfect balance of shade and sunlight, resulting in grapes with intense colour and flavour. The latest vineyard water management and irrigation methods, such as deficit regulated irrigation practices, are also utilised to increase flavour concentration and assist in the production of award-winning wines.
At the gateway to the Clare township, Kirrihill have created a haven for those who want to indulge in the partnering of quality food and wine. The winery's cellar door, nestled among gum trees and overlooking the surrounding vines and countryside, provides the perfect introduction to a range of super premium wines. The traditional cellar door tasting can be followed by anything from a great coffee to a sumptuous meal in the adjoining restaurant, Salt n Vines Bar and Bistro. While always a pleasure, a bottle of Kirrihill wine takes on a new dimension when enjoyed on the restaurant's balcony overlooking the valley
Kirrihill Wines has grown exports to 36% of total production from a standing start just two years ago. Kirrihill's Grant Norman said Kirrihill saw an amazing growth in demand internationally over the past 12 months. “Our success in wine shows around the country and regular press reviews have led to overseas distributors to the Kirrihill doorstep. Most of them are looking for a strong Clare producer and we give them exactly what they are looking for!”
