Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Mongrel Vineyard:

Why did you call the vineyard “Mongrel”?

Shiraz is a notoriously vigorous grape variety. The name “Mongrel” was born from our frustration of dealing with the particularly wild behaviour of our vines. During the growing season, if you stand too long in the vineyard you’ll become part of the trellis!

Tell us about the vineyard

The 3.2 hectare Shiraz vineyard is situated on Spring Flat, six kilometres east of Mudgee township. It has its own micro climate and has been frost and hail free to date. During the ripening period nights are long and cool.

The vines are planted east-west on the slopes of a well-drained, north-facing block. Planting material comprised six Shiraz clones from the Barossa Valley. The mix of clones creates more complexity of fruit flavour in the bottle.

What’s your vineyard management philosophy?

Our goal is to produce the best possible fruit with conservative and consistent vineyard management. We use water on a needs-only basis and minimal chemicals. We don’t use fertilisers, but test soil and water regularly.

Who makes the wines?

We employ the skills of a handful of talented winemakers:

• Michael Slater is a multi-award winning Mudgee winemaker who has worked in boutique and corporate wineries.
• Jacob Stein, young and dynamic “New Mudgee” winemaker, has worked in wineries in Germany, Italy, Victoria and Margaret River.
• David Lowe, industry force and highly regarded winemaker at Lowe and Louee Wines. Five vintages in Bordeaux as a flying winemaker, President of the NSW Wine Industry Association and board member of the Winemakers Federation of Australia.
• Simon Gilbert is a specialist custom winemaker and master blender in Mudgee and Orange.

Where can I buy Mongrel wines?

Mongrel wines can be purchased online through our website or at our Cellar Door in Mudgee, open 10-4 on weekends & public holidays or by appointment.

Our wines can also be found at the Ultimo Wine Centre, selected wine shops, Sydney restaurants, Roths Wine Bar Mudgee, at major Sydney events, our cellar door and online. For trade enquiries call Sue Fairlie-Cuninghame on 0409 515 599.

What sort of bottles do you use?

We use some O-I Lean + Green bottles which are up to 28% lighter than regular wine bottles. Production of these French green-coloured bottles uses considerably less energy and water, while maintaining the classic wine bottle shape and proportions.

What’s so great about the Mudgee region?

We have history. The first vineyard was established here in 1852. In Mudgee, grapes grow extraordinarily well in the region’s deep red earth.
The clean air invigorates, and clear skies sparkle day and night. It’s a region of community values and old-fashioned country hospitality; urban coffee and delicious, simple food; top quality, honest wines and a range of accommodation to suit all. And people with time to yarn!

Come visit us soon. You won’t be disappointed.