Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown are a small winegrowing duo who are passionate about their small patch of country in Stanley, Beechworth.
Comprising Tessa Brown and Jeremy Schmölzer, the pair planted their vineyard at the region’s highest elevation in 2014. The site, surrounded by bushland, is quintessential cool climate.
The estate wines are labelled with the vineyard name Thorley, whilst their other wines are made from grapes grown both locally and from further afield, including the cool climes of King Valley
Sophistication, brightness, elegance, and interest are the key characteristics of their wines, and so it is with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Shiraz and Chardonnay that they are building their reputation.
Many of the label names and styles are inspired by Jeremy’s European heritage; Grauburgunder, Blauburgunder and Obstgarten, which sit comfortably alongside their Thorley and Brunner wines. Each of these tell a story about the style and motivation behind the wine.
These are wines well worth seeking out. The Thorley Vineyard Shiraz is in the spectrum of blue fruits with a lovely savouriness and attractive tannins. A youthful wine that will continue to impress with a number of years in the cellar.
With their whites, they are not afraid to experiment and play around in the winery. The Prêt-à-Blanc blends Pinot Gris, Riesling and Sylvaner creating a crisp, floral white wine with an applely dry finish.
The Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown wines are a true expression of the region and the prowess of Tessa and Jeremy. Their combined winegrowing experience covers a range of regions, from Spain, Italy and more locally Orange, and it is this that is manifested in their wines. It is a small, focussed, hands on operation that gives adds colour and richness to the Beechworth winemaking tapestry.
- David -