Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
In the fields of wine, coffee, tourism and yacht racing, the Sydney-based Oatley family has not only made their mark nationally and internationally but has also raised Australia’s profile and boosted its prosperity. In addition to the yachting business with their Wild Oats maxi-yachts and revamping the resorts and tourism on their stunningly beautiful Hamilton Island, the family started Robert Oatley Vineyards.
Founded by the late Robert Oatley AO, as a reinforcement of the family’s on-going commitment to the Australian wine industry, first started with Rosemount Estate (1969 - 2001). The family produces award-winning wines of superb quality, value, cellar-ability and immediate appeal. ‘Accessible elegance’ is always a focus for the family.
The Oatleys have overseen dynamic vineyard projects across South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia since the 1990’s. Today’s vineyard properties for Robert Oatley Vineyards shared and managed with long-term family friends and growers with a portfolio focus of Margaret River and McLaren Vale. The Robert Oatley wine portfolio commences with The Signature Series to The Finisterre to The Pennant Collection.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.