The Lake George "Terroir"

The Lake George Range rises steeply from the Western shores of the Lake. The alluvial fans at the foot of the range form a perfect location for viticulture. The soils are relatively infertile and drain freely. These conditions encourage deep-rooted, healthy vines and provide enough stress to favour the production of grapes with thick skins and excellent fruit flavours and, as we read in a recent edition of Nature, high levels of anti-ageing polyphenols.

The slopes face East allowing the rising sun to dry out any dew, and so reduce the impact of moulds and mildews. The steepness of the slopes also contributes to vine health by promoting good air drainage and reducing the risk of frost damage during the growing season.

In addition, as with the rest of the district, Lake George has the ideal ripening conditions for super-premium wines. The bright sunny days of March and April combine with cold nights to prolong maturation and retain the delicate aromatic compounds essential for the expression of varietal flavours.