Founders Marc and Eva Besen purchased the property at TarraWarra in 1979, initially as a family retreat. Thanks to their love of the wines of Burgundy, and with encouragement from legendary Yarra Valley winemaker Dr. John Middleton, they planted the first 6 hectares of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in 1983. Forty years on, the 400-hectare property now encompasses 26 hectares of vines, an extensive nature reserve, cattle grazing, kitchen garden and our beautiful cellar door and restaurant. The vision to create and share a unique and beautiful place is driven by gratitude to this country that opened its arms and homes when Marc Besen arrived in 1947. Together we strive to fulfil his vision for TarraWarra, as custodians we are defined by heritage and a deep sense of place.
The TarraWarra vineyards are managed by Stuart Sissins, Chris Beard and their team. Their innate sense and understanding of soils and vineyards have guided our vineyards through the changing seasons to consistently produce the high-quality fruit that earns our wines lofty accolades every year. His knowledge of every site on the property is a constant in informing our decisions for the future. For vintage 2024 we see fruit from Swallowfield Vineyard in Gembrook, TarraWarra have a long term lease of this vineyard which sees us working hard on improving the red volcanic soils and vine health to produce some beautiful exceptionally cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The vineyard at TarraWarra is comprised of 26 hectares divided into 26 separate blocks, which are spread across the property’s 400 hectares. While TarraWarra Estate is best known for exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, our more recent additions have attracted much attention and critical acclaim. These include J Block Shiraz, K Block Merlot, and our newest wines, Barbera and Nebbiolo. These single-vineyard wines express the unique terroir of distinct sites on the property, while the Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are blended from across the property and represent the essence of the Estate. Under the watchful eye of winemaker Sarah Fagan, all of TarraWarra Estate’s wines are meticulously grown, handpicked, vinified and aged on the estate.
TarraWarra Estate's respect for sustainability and provenance make the property an internationally recognised place to visit in the Yarra Valley. Our subterranean cellar door makes for an unforgettable tasting experience, while the deck shaded by native peppercorn trees, and with expansive views of our surrounds, is the perfect place to linger over a glass of wine. Our restaurant team, with Head Chef Maxwell Parlas, have created a wonderful dining experience with a menu inspired by our kitchen garden and local produce.
Whether you linger here for the day, surrounded by native bushland and waterways, or drink our labour of love at home, TarraWarra Estate always finds a way to leave an impression.