Passing Clouds’ wines have always stood out for their colour, complexity and sheer power. They are also well known for their “unusual” labels. Once you have seen the Angel’s Blend label you will never forget it… come to think of it, neither will you forget the wine, but for a different reason: the wine is exceptionally good!
Graeme Leith and Sue Mackinnon established Passing Clouds more than 25 years ago, planting predominantly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon in the deep sandy loam creek flats at Kingower in Central Victoria.
Kingower situated 60km northeast of Bendigo offers a warm growing climate with an average annual rainfall of 500mm. The 15 acre vineyard is usually rain dependant with low yielding vines 1 – 1.5 tonnes per acre. Such low yields result in wine with immense colour, concentration and power.
Rigid employment of trellising techniques, Scott Henry vertical shoot positioning and Lyre controls canopy growth keeping the vine healthy and resulting in a minimal spray regime. No insecticides or pesticides are used and elemental copper and sulphur are applied to prevent mildew.
Traditional winemaking techniques are used in the winery, open fermenters, foot stamping, hand pumping and basket pressing. The wine is matured in American and French oak puncheon and hogshead barrels, after a series of rackings the wine is egg white fined and estate bottled, unfiltered to retain full complexity and to extend cellaring life.
A bonus with Passing Clouds is that some of the aging has been done for you. Most of the wine is held for up to three years prior to releasing to ensure it is ready for your enjoyment – a rare service today – naturally the wine can be cellared further.
Winemakers Graeme Leith and Greg Bennett recommend decanting their reds before serving.
Passing Clouds range include:
- Angel Blend Cabernets
- Graeme’s Blend Shiraz Cabernet
- Shiraz
- Merlot
- Pinot Noir
- Grenache and two white wines:
- Chardonnay and
- Sauvignon Blanc
Passing Clouds is a great place to visit. Nestled among gnarly old vines the cellar door is a recycled building, which exudes charm and character. Visitors are welcome for tastings every weekend from noon to 5pm. During the weeks it is wise to phone and make an appointment.
For more information or orders:
Passing Clouds
Tel.: 03 5438 8257
Fax.: 03 5438 8246