Savina Lane wines
Star Cellar Door
(07) 4683 5377
savinalanewines.com.au
Just south of Stanthorpe is one of the most exciting additions to the growing list of Granite Belt wineries, Savina Lane. This is a million miles from the old-style Granite Belt cellar door. Rather, it puts one in mind of visiting a first-class establishment in the Napa Valley. Everything about it is beautifully crafted and immaculately prepared.
Brad and Cheryl Hutchings took over and transformed the estate in 2011. One of the first decisions they made was to bring in highly respected local winemaker Mike Hayes. They have concentrated on what are known locally as the Strange Bird varieties – alternatives to the usual suspects, fiano, viognier, tempranillo and graciano, though what would any self-respecting Aussie winery be without shiraz – and they have been richly rewarded at numerous shows.
Savina Lane largely operates through their Inner Circle Wine Club, though anyone is welcome. This is necessary as stocks are very limited, but the good news is that production continues to increase. The cellar door usually operates only when they have stocks available, although Inner Circle members are welcome to visit at any time. It will open again at Easter. Put Savina Lane on your Granite Belt bucket list. KEN GARGETT
OUTSTANDING WINE: 2016 Savina Lane Fiano Classico, A$46