A. From the vineyards throughout Australia…
Even Keel sources grapes from vineyards throughout Australia, each with unique aspect, elevation, and soil type. The variety that best suits a particular region is established, and relationships are built with those grape growers, ensuring Even Keel receives quality fruit year in year out. Some of the chosen grape varieties include Chardonnay from Tumbarumba, Pinot Noir from Mornington Peninsula, Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot from Orange, and Shiraz Viognier and Pinot Rosé from the Canberra District.
All stages of fruit development, such as pruning and canopy management, are overseen by Even Keel. At Harvest time the grapes undergo the first stage of processing (involving separating the grape skins from the juice), at the regional wineries, utilising the local experience and quality labour. This ensures the grapes are in peak condition, rather than damaging them through immediate and lengthy transportation.
B. …to completion at home in Mornington Peninsula
The next step is the delicate transfer of the fruit from the local vineyards to Even Keel’s winery in Mornington Peninsula − the perfect location for Even Keel to ‘maintain the balance’. Mornington Peninsula is not only an excellent area to make Pinot Noir, but it is also home to amazing surf and merely an hour away from the superb Melbourne restaurant scene.
Here, in Mornington Peninsula, a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques, all carried out by hand, complete the process. The result is a collection of wines that demonstrate a balance in elegance and regional character.
Getting from A. to B.
To make wine in multiple regions is a great logistical challenge. It requires planning, a bit of luck (which occurs when ripening times of grape varieties differ), and also a friendly hand. It would be remiss not to mention here the generosity and camaraderie within the winemaking fraternity that assists Even Keel’s commitment to viticultural diversity. The sharing and borrowing of crew, transport, and equipment make the venture possible, allowing Even Keel to bring you the perfect bottle of wine.