Winemaker, James Kellie, spent 5 years at Charles Sturt University Winery making award winning wines from a range of varied and diverse regions - cool climate Tumbarumba fizz, big McLaren Vale Shiraz, iconic Coonawarra Cabernets etc. This was followed by 5 years a winemaker at Howard Park, with direct resposibilty for the Great Southern wines.
Again, the diversity of the region impressed - classy, complex Shiraz from the newly emerging Frankland River sat alongside some of Australia's best Riesling from the Porongurups. In 2003, he decided to purchase the Harewood Vineyard and built a 500 tonne winery to produce a range of wines that showcased the amazing depth of diversity and quality of the Great Southern region. This quality of fruit has been reflected in Harewood's impressive show results - 33 Trophies in National and International shows since 2004.
Why the Great Southern?
Western Australia produces many fantastic wines. I believe the Great Southern is in an enviable position with an ability to produce class leading examples of most varieties; be it Frankland River Shiraz and Merlot, Mount Barker Cabernet and Shiraz, Porongurup Riesling, Denmark Chardonnay, Pinot and Sauvignon Blanc. As a winemaker who sources fruit from throughout the region, it is like working in a lolly shop! Combine this with the relative lack of awareness of this remote region in the market place, the future is very bright and exciting.
Did you know...
Harewood has been awarded 33 Trophies, 64 Gold and 93 Silver medals since 2004.
- James Kellie, Chief Winemaker