Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) has officially welcomed Beenak Vineyard as the newest member of its Victorian Yarra Valley vineyard portfolio with a Smoking Ceremony performed by Woiwurrung Elder and Cultural Heritage Officer for the Wurundjeri Tribe Land Council Uncle Perry Wandin.
Born and bred in Healesville and representing the Wandin family at the event, Uncle Perry described the cultural significance of the Yarra Valley region and the recent discovery of historical artefacts in the Warburton and Reefton areas reflecting the rich local history of generations of First Nations People.
The 55-hectare property joins the company’s other Yarra Valley vineyards at Coldstream Hills, Gladysdale, Briarston, and Deer Farm.
Planted in 1988 and featuring significant plantings of cool-climate varieties including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the Beenak Vineyard site also includes a dam and 71-megalitre water entitlement.
Treasury Wine Estates General Manager for Viticulture in Australia and New Zealand Anthony Catanzariti said it was important to mark the transition to new ownership by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the site.
“Sense of place is such an important part of winemaking, and we look forward to incorporating the premium grapes from Beenak Vineyard into our award-winning Coldstream Hills wines overseen by winemakers Andrew Fleming and Greg Jarratt,” he said.
“Boosting our production capacity for these cool-climate varietals will help us meet consumer demand, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay becoming increasingly popular in recent years – we’re excited about the characteristics that will emerge from the plantings across the site’s undulating hills.”
The Beenak Vineyard was sold for just over $7 million in July this year.
Vineyard Manager Gina Knight said they’re fortunate to have such an experienced and passionate vineyard and winemaking team here in the Yarra Valley.
“With this strategic addition to our portfolio, it will help cement our position as an important contributor to the region’s future for Victoria’s renowned cool-climate wines, and the local and international tourism they bring,” she said.
TWE recently announced the formation of a Reconciliation Action Plan working group led by executive sponsors Kerrin Petty, Chief Supply Officer, and Katie Hodgson, Chief People Officer. The cross-functional employee reference group is spearheading the development of the company’s first Reconciliation Action Plan.
