Take Ten

On 10 February 2009, the tenth vintage began for one of Queensland’s most notorious wineries. Robert Channon Wines began life fending off a legal challenge from the mighty Moet & Chandon – who thought the original choice of name (Channon Estate) was too close for comfort.

Their first harvest in 2000 was tiny because most of the fruit was destroyed by an enormous hail storm. The Channons salvaged enough to make a small quantity of Cabernet Shiraz, which won their first gold medal at the 2001 Australian Small Winemakers Show. During the ten years, the accolades have poured in. James Halliday says their Verdelho is the best he has ever tasted and amongst the many gongs have been the Trophy for Queensland’s Best White Wine (four times) and Best Red Wine (once). The energetic Channons have since built their winery, cellar door and Swigmore Hall for concerts and recently opened their Singing Lake Café.

Vintage is underway across the Granite Belt, where growing conditions have been very favourable. For more click. Watch out for 2009 early release whites during the year.