Malcom Waechter

1.  How did your career in the vineyard begin? 

When I left school I was successful in winning myself a junior water master position within the Greenways Irrigation Scheme.

My boss had a vineyard and I learnt so much about grape growing.  My interest became evident when seven years later a block became available for sale. 

2.  When were the first grapes planted? 

The purchased vineyards over the years were all established however 2 years ago we began a project to replant a couple of our existing blocks. 

3.  What is the history of your vineyard? 

Over the years we have purchased blocks from several growers within the Greenways Irrigation scheme, some being the original owners when the irrigation scheme started in 1962.

4. What grapes are on your property? 

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, colombard, Rhine Riesling, Gordo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon

5.  What is the secret to growing good grapes? 

Keeping blocks disease free, good nutrition program, balanced watering program, monitoring and watching them grow!

6.  Favourite varieties to work with and why?

Shiraz and Chardonnay. 

Shiraz is easy to grow with a balanced program and can make great flavours and colour,  plus can give you great returns if all done well.

Chardonnay are high yielding and pretty easy to grow as long as you keep powdery mildew at bay. Also they are easy to machine pick with good juice and aroma. 

7.  Favourite memory in the vineyard?

Working together with my wife. Every vintage is a great memory. Planting and training new vineyards and watching them grow from rootlings to first pick in around 3 years’ time.

8.  Favourite food and wine pairing? 

Steak and Shiraz