Gembrook Hill

Gembrook Hill was established by Ian and June Marks in one of the coolest and most southernmost Upper Yarra Valley sites in 1983. The northeast-facing vineyard is in a natural amphitheatre and the low-yielding vines are unirrigated. Timo Mayer looked after the viticulture and winemaking from 2000–05 when Ian and June’s son, Andrew, joined the family farm. Timo and Andrew worked together until ’17, also making their own wines at Gembrook Hill. Since then, it's been an all-family affair with June and Andrew Marks, who is in charge of winemaking and viticulture, co-managing Gembrook Hill. Indeed, the only contract labour they use is for picking. As to the wines, Gembrook Hill has produced a superb set; all with their trademark finesse and elegance. -PHILIP RICH