Wine History
Old growth rainforest tree
The rainforest known as the Big Scrub once stretched from Byron Bay inland to Whian Whian (and beyond), where the subtropical climate is relieved by cool night air from the Mt Warning caldera.
We came here in 2002 and our Italian friends showed us that the Chambourcin grape prospered in this climate. Thus another endeavour that complemented our dream for Imogen’s Farm was born. We realized that a vineyard plus winery was achievable.
Predictably, like all sites, ours had its own peculiarities. Such as the necessity for a vineyard management practice that minimized erosion during the torrential downpours and the battles to stop the hungry wallabies. Or the awful realisation that birds love our early white muscat and can strip a vineyard in one day.
Crushing wine grapes
Going for us, we have our rich red soil, the temperate climate, ample rainfall and a cool enough winter to help our grapes flourish.
Christine and I have spent the last six years working here and working away in wine regions. All Imogen’s Farm wines are made on the property. Our aim is to develop a local wine incorporating grapes grown locally like Chambourcin with more traditional varieties.
Our Wines
Kesteven vineyard
The Chambourcin grape grown on our property is “bullet proof” to disease and is admirably suited to our climate.
Chambourcin grapes produce a wine that is often described as having a velvet smooth palate but which is not noted for the complexity and length of its palate. We therefore have imported parcels of traditional varieties like Shiraz and Grenache to blend with our Chambourcin, to produce exciting wines with the pepper and long palate of Shiraz and the berry flavours of Grenache.
We have also made small parcels of straight varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Current releases
”It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of, a person under the age of 18 years.”
KESTEVEN VINEYARD
Licence number 24015670 producer/wholesaler
