Kevin and Tricia are focused on exploring the unique qualities of their three distinct single vineyard plots, or climats, from their estate in Balnarring. Situated on a rise of volcanic red clay topped with stony red-brown clay loam, their work is clearly influenced by the wines and ethos Burgundy. However, their goal is not to replicate the flavors of the Cote d’Or but to showcase the individuality of these terroir-driven wines. Established in 1998 and 1999, the estate features 3.43 hectares of Pinot Noir divided among three well-defined climats: Lodestone, Hommage, and Garamond, each planted with differing Burgundian clones and terroir.

In Kevin’s words: “We have shared a love of wine, culture and the natural environment since first meeting in 1978. We visited vineyards and wine-making families and drank good wine wherever we could find it. Gradually our palates ‘went south’ to cooler climates where the best Australian Pinot Noir is grown and made. It was a natural step to do so ourselves. We had come to love and enjoy Pinot Noir most. The principle of terroir spoke to us personally and made some important connections in our lives. After much research and a long search for the right site, we chose the Mornington Peninsula, where the historic Hurley Farm virtually found us”

In Rod’s words: “The evolution of Zonzo wines was a natural progression for my family, our love of food and celebrating with family was missing one element – wine. We recruited renowned Yarra Valley winemaker Caroline Mooney as head Winemaker to bring the project to life and assist with new urban winery design. Our vineyard originally planted in 1997 has been rejuvenated with new Italian varieties introduced to see the future sustainability of the Zonzo wine label, with plans to expand it further in the future”