Wine awards keeping up with the Joneses

By Callan Date
THE wine was flowing freely for Narre Warren East couple Bruce and Mary Jones after they took out a prestigious wine-making award recently.
Their Woongarra Estate 2004 shiraz was acknowledged with the top prize in the shiraz category of the Wine of Gippsland awards earlier this month.
The recognition comes on top of the estate’s popular Three Wise Men pinot noir wine that has also been well recognised for its quality and flavour.
“It was a big thrill and rather unexpected,” Mr Jones said.
The Woongarra Estate is nestled on 80 acres of land at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges – an area traditionally known for its cool climate wines.
“The shiraz is a cool climate wine.
“A cool climate produces more gentle flavours and they are becoming more favoured in the industry.”
Mr Jones said the alcohol content is not as high in cool climate wines but this was not proving to be a problem with consumers.
Mr Jones puts the latest award down to several factors that have improved the quality of the Woongarra Estate wine.
“I’ve probably got a bit better handle on the wine-making process. Also, the vines have aged and we are using better oak in the barrels,” he said.
All of which make for a better drop, Mr Jones said.
The Narre Warren East operation is now at a stage where two full-time workers, plus Mr Jones, are needed for continued maintenance.
“Vineyards are extremely laborious. It’s not like you can go away and let them fend for themselves for a week.”
Mr Jones said the Woongarra Estate 2004 shiraz was available at selected restaurants throughout Melbourne and can also be purchased online at www.woongarrawinery.com.au