Garry Crittenden has always had a passion for wine and is seen as a pioneer of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula introducing Italian varieties such as Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto and Sangiovese into the region in the 1990's. These Italian varieties have gone on to become a mainstay in the local restaurants and homes, not only in the region, but also throughout Australia.
Garry is today joined by his family in tending the vineyard with his son Rollo in charge of winemaking and his daughter Zoe taking care of the marketing.
Crittenden Estate Wines
Despite the enjoyment Crittenden Estate wines get out of working with alternative varieties and blends, their hearts also lie with the traditional varieties that thrive in Mornington Peninsula – Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Although Pinot is a challenge, Gary says "It is for the satisfaction of the finished product and we currently have five different Pinot labels. Every wine is unique thanks to the different clones and the Peninsula’s myriad sub-regions. Sunday meals with the family often feature a Pinot Noir from Burgundy!"
Did you know...
When Garry planted his first five acres vineyard in Dromana in 1982, the actually doubled the number of plantings on the Peninsula. Today the region’s vineyards cover more than 1,915 acres.
- Rollo Crittenden, Chief Winemaker