bendigo

Named after the bloody Battle of Killiecrankie of 1689 in Scotland, Killiecrankie the winery is thankfully a more relaxed affair. Owned and run by John Monteath (whose clan was busy making/drinking wine during the battle) and Claire Hull, the cellar door is an eclectic mix of farming paraphernalia, winemaking gear and artworks for sale. John Monteath, a viticulturist of much repute, has overseen many stellar vineyards in the Bendigo and Heathcote regions, and in 2005 he began releasing wines under his own brand, made from estate fruit and local grapes. Killiecrankie shows incredible quality across its three labels: the approachable Crankie, the exotic Lola Montez, and the flagship Killiecrankie range. In the latter, the 2016 The Viscount Cabernet Sauvignon is well and truly the standout, being a wine which has that elusive quality of both power and elegance, with immense concentration and a silky texture. 

TOP DROP: 2016 Killiecrankie The Viscount Cabernet Sauvignon, A$90