Grampians is a region that pairs some of the world’s oldest extant vines on own roots with lesser expected varietals (including Dolcetto and Pinot Meunier). Not only that, it is a fascinating region in terms of both Australian wine and Australian history. Local vine plantings date back to 1862, and it was the first Australian region to produce sparkling wine.

At the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, the region benefits from altitude and abundant sunshine days but suffers low rainfall. Henry Best, for whom Best’s Great Western is named, planted his first vines in the region as far back as 1866. Best’s original plantings included 48,000 vines and many exist today, pre-phylloxera and on their original rootstock. Soils range from hard setting silt over clay to friable clay loams. In general the soils and vineyards are low yielding and retain moisture very well, essential in a region with limited rainfall.

There are three ranges: Icon, Concongella and Great Western. The Icon range represents the old 1860s dry grown vines, such as the Old Vine Pinot Meunier and ‘Bin 0’ Shiraz; Concongella are special wines that are made as a result of a particular vintage, innovative cellar or winemaking techniques; and the Great Western Range represents Best’s classic, medium-bodied style of wines including Shiraz and Riesling. Best’s Thomson Family Shiraz 2014 was awarded James Halliday’s Wine of the Year for 2017, an amazing accolade for the winemaking team.