Opening remarks, by David Middleton, CEO
Once again the calendar has snuck up on me unannounced and I needed to be reminded that it is newsletter time. Too much daydreaming for me. I am indeed fortunate to have Claire and Sam to keep me on track. But who wouldn’t be tempted to daydream in this beautiful valley? The green rolling hills, crisp clear mornings and the calm late afternoons with their magical orange light. Kangaroos bouncing past the window, eagles gliding by, wattles in flower, cover crops rising lushly and the dormant vines fast asleep seemingly unaware of how lucky they are to be a part of this landscape.
In the newsletter this year I raise a very important topic and one which is now front and centre for our industry. This is environmental sustainability.
Our industry falls prey to all sorts of influences that are not particularly friendly in environmental terms but we are well aware of our responsibilities and actively pursuing solutions.
I also consider the role that the Cabernet family of grapes has played in the history of the valley and in the establishment of Mount Mary. There have been many famous families that have figured in the Yarra’s history and the Cabernet family is prominent among them. There is Sam’s regular vintage report and tasting notes from a standout season. I know each year we get excited about the new wines but some vintages delight with quality across all varieties. Sam will fill you in on the details a little later.
This year we finally turned a sod on two very important projects. The first is our ‘future proof’ water storage in the form of a 40 megalitre lake and the second is our long awaited underground cellar extension. When we take these two projects along with phase two of our solar electricity installation, we can now see our vision for the future of Mount Mary really taking shape. It must have been at least a decade ago that I envisaged us becoming independent and self-sufficient for energy and water. That dream is now becoming a reality.
I do hope you enjoy reading this newsletter. I also trust you will enjoy tasting the new wines and of course some older ones. Most of all I look forward to rewarding and peaceful times ahead sharing good food and wine in fine company.