Our Review
Sam Clarke is the son of David and Cheryl Clarke, founders of Thorn-Clarke Wines, a leading Barossa Valley winery (see separate entry). Thus it was easy for the family to meet Sam and wife Helen's wish to buy a 6ha slice of shiraz planted in 1991. For good measure, Peter Kelly (Thorn-Clarke's winemaker) is the winemaker for the venture. After 6 years, Pontifex (as the new venture was named on its birth in 2011) planted a hectare of mourvèdre and grenache on the rich Bay of Biscay soils of the Krondorf district. They also purchase old-vine grenache. Exports to China. -JAMES HALLIDAY
About
Sam and Helen Clarke, after many years working for their family winery Thorn-Clarke, decided to branch out and make small batch wines from their small Barossa Valley estate. Many hours have been spent in the vineyard as well as the winery helping to craft these wines. Grenache, Mourvedre and Shiraz have been the focus varieties. Sales to domestic, China, Hong Kong, Germany and Holland.
Specialities
Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre
Details
| Rating |
|
| Winemaker |
Peter Kelly |
| Established |
2011 |
| Dozens |
2000 |
| Vineyards (area) |
7 ha |
| Viticulturist |
N/A |
| Opening Hours |
Not |
| Address |
PO Box 161, Tanunda, SA 5352
|
| Telephone |
0418 811 066
|
| Website |
www.pontifexwines.com.au
|
