del Rios

Inspired by their Spanish viticultural heritage, Gus and Esther del Rio established del Rios with sons Andres, Joshua and Marcus. They first planted vines on their Moorabool Valley property north-west of Geelong in 1996.

On the steep slopes of extinct volcano Mount Anakie, the winery's vineyard is planted in rich volcanic alluvial soils on a north-westerly aspect. The region's continental climate, low rainfall and extended sunshine prolongs the ripening, promoting the slow accumulation of flavour. These conditions, combined with hand pruning, produce low yields of fruit rich in varietal character. Additional grapes are sourced from childhood friend and grower Marco Martinelli in the King Valley.

del Rios's premium AD range is made from select parcels, and only in exceptional years. At the next tier the del Rios single vineyard range includes Shiraz, Tempranillo, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.