Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, March & April 2024
Yeringberg Winery boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, firmly establishing itself as a pioneer in the Yarra Valley winemaking scene. The journey began with the migration of Baron Frederic-Guillaume de Pury, from Switzerland to Australia in 1852. After working with other pioneering wineries in the region, he acquired 450 hectares of land in the central Yarra Valley in 1863. Here, he planted 32 hectares of vineyards and named the estate Yeringberg….
Yeringberg Winery boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, firmly establishing itself as a pioneer in the Yarra Valley winemaking scene. The journey began with the migration of Baron Frederic-Guillaume de Pury, from Switzerland to Australia in 1852. After working with other pioneering wineries in the region, he acquired 450 hectares of land in the central Yarra Valley in 1863. Here, he planted 32 hectares of vineyards and named the estate Yeringberg.
Throughout the years, Yeringberg experienced both triumphs and challenges inherent in farming. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the winery enjoyed significant success, garnering multiple international awards and exporting wine to the northern hemisphere. However, following the First World War, changing market demands led to a decline in demand for cool climate wines. In 1921, second generation winemaker, George de Pury, made the decision to remove all vineyards and shift focus to sheep and cattle farming.
Inspired by the legacy of Yeringberg wines, George’s son, Guill, embarked on the journey to revive the vineyard in 1969. Over the years, he steadily expanded plantings, reigniting the reputation of Yeringberg. Today, Sandra de Pury and her brother David,I oversee operations, with David managing the vineyard and livestock, while Sandra crafts the wines.
Yeringberg wines are renowned as "Classic Yarra Valley wines", reflecting a dedication to traditional winemaking practices. Embracing varieties and styles from the 1800s, such as Marsanne, Roussanne, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bordeaux red varietals, we prioritise complexity, texture, and longevity. Their approach emphasises patience, with extended time in the vineyard, bottle ageing, and cellar maturation.
As the fifth-generation winemaker of the De Pury family, Sandra recognises the evolution of winemaking practices. While technology has enhanced efficiency, Yeringberg’s philosophy remains unchanged – prioritising elegance, finesse, and longevity in their wines.
On the wine list at Meletos for March and April, we feature their 2020 Viognier, 2018 Marsanne Roussanne, 2023 Rosé, and 2014 Shiraz. Each wine offers a unique expression of Sandra’s dedication to quality and tradition.
Sandra’s favourite way to enjoy a glass of Yeringberg wine is at the table, surrounded by friends and family. With three generations of de Purys residing on the property, sharing a bottle creates cherished memories and celebrates their heritage.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, December 2023
Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, a formidable winemaking duo, have cultivated a unique journey in the world of viticulture, much like the vines they tend to. Adrian's roots in winemaking stretch back to his family's vineyard and orchard, established by his Italian immigrant grandfather. Immersed in Italian culture from a young age, wine became an integral part of Adrian's heritage. On the other hand, Rebecca initially set out to study fashion design in Melbourne but found herself drawn to the world of wine after moving to the NSW outback with her family when she was 17 years old. Fate led her to working in a local winery, where she met Adrian, sparking a love story intertwined with their shared passion for winemaking.
Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, a formidable winemaking duo, have cultivated a unique journey in the world of viticulture, much like the vines they tend to. Adrian's roots in winemaking stretch back to his family's vineyard and orchard, established by his Italian immigrant grandfather. Immersed in Italian culture from a young age, wine became an integral part of Adrian's heritage. On the other hand, Rebecca initially set out to study fashion design in Melbourne but found herself drawn to the world of wine after moving to the NSW outback with her family when she was 17 years old. Fate led her to working in a local winery, where she met Adrian, sparking a love story intertwined with their shared passion for winemaking.
Under the Santolin label, this dynamic duo expresses their creativity by producing Italian varietals, inspired by Adrian's rich Italian heritage. Their commitment to minimal intervention winemaking is evident in their unconventional techniques, such as leaving wine on its skins for added color and texture. The result is a portfolio of wines that reflects not only their craftsmanship but also the unique characteristics of the grapes they work with.
Since embarking on their winemaking journey in 2009, the Santolins have expanded their range, with each collection representing different facets of their personalities. The single vineyard wines showcase their serious side, emphasizing meticulous winemaking and exceptional fruit. In contrast, the Cosa Nostra range allows for experimentation and creativity, while the Little Saint range embodies their easy-going, cruisy side.
The heart of their winemaking philosophy lies in minimal intervention, Lo-Fi winemaking, and sustainable viticulture. Starting with exceptional fruit is the key, minimizing the need for extensive winemaking processes. This philosophy aligns with the belief that great wines should naturally reflect the unique characteristics of the grapes.
Being a family business, Adrian and Rebecca find a unique sense of accomplishment in creating something that bears their name and represents their hard work. Despite their differences in thinking and processing information, the collaborative effort allows them to complement each other, creating a harmonious balance, or finding a "middle ground" with Adrian adopting a Happy Life Happy Wife mantra.
The Santolins' commitment goes beyond crafting exceptional wines; it extends to a broader vision of responsibility and ethics in winemaking. Considering the impact on future generations, they aim to create a sustainable legacy that gives back to the local community, which has been instrumental in their growth and success.
Among their notable creations, the Il Capo and Friulano from the Cosa Nostra range showcase the Santolins' innovative approach. The Il Capo, inspired by Southern Italian reds, offers a medium-bodied, fruit-driven experience with savory undertones—a perfect companion for Italian dishes. The Friulano, fermented wild on its skins and aged in old oak, presents a rich, powerful, and funky profile with hints of herbs, wild grass, and subtle minerality.
Ultimately, the Santolins agree that the best way to enjoy their wines is with amazing food—a sentiment that reflects the Italian way of savoring life's pleasures. In each bottle of Santolin wine, the shared passion for winemaking and dedication to quality shine through, inviting enthusiasts to savor a unique and delightful experience.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, November 2023
Behn Payten and Troy Jones, the self-proclaimed only two (literate) graduates of Healesville High School in 1997, have maintained a lasting friendship that has defied the test of time. Their foray into winemaking began with a spontaneous idea while they were bartending together, serving pints of Coopers Green, trying to earn some extra summer pocket money.
This spur-of-the-moment idea has since transformed into one of the most distinctive and well-regarded wineries and cellar door precincts in the Yarra Valley. These two equally distinctive and charismatic individuals are the driving force behind this success story.
Payten & Jones describe their approach to winemaking as similar to that of their approach to underwear; “less is more” .They prioritise respecting the terroir where the grapes are grown and the grape varieties they work with, always striving to keep things simple. Even before minimal intervention winemaking gained widespread attention, Behn and Troy have always adopted the attitude and philosophy of ensuring that their practices are better for the next generation, and simply doing what’s right, in both winemaking and life in general.
While they are renowned for their iconic Yarra Valley wines, Behn and Troy's winemaking adventures extend beyond the Valley to the Spanish region of Priorat. There, they embrace the vintage tradition, craft exquisite Grenache (Garnacha), and immerse themselves in Spanish culture, cherishing late mornings and savoring vermouth.
This month, we are delighted to feature the 2023 VV Pinot Noir and the 2022 VV Chardonnay from Payten & Jones at Meletos. The Chardonnay, as described by Behn and Troy, strikes a balance between traditional flavour and texture with a touch of contemporary freshness, devoid of oak influence. The Pinot Noir shows a nose of raspberry liquorice and offers that same delightful flavour on the palate, culminating in a crisp, refreshing finish—a great representation of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir.
We asked Behn and Troy how they best enjoy Payten & Jones wines to which they answered in their typical humour
”Jonesy [Troy] has the Pinot whilst deciding what to drink, realising it’s what he wants to drink and then while choosing what to drink next.
Payto [Behn] loves a cheeky one when he’s got a pair of tongs in his other hand and is smelling of charcoal and reverse seared tomahawk fat.”
We’re really excited to be showcasing this Enigmatic Duo’s wines at Meletos for the month of November and look forward to sharing them with you.
Find out more about Payten & Jones at https://www.pj.wine/
Book a table at Meletos here.
Introducing Ernie's Bar
We are delighted to announce the official opening of Ernie’s Bar – a bar dedicated to the finer things in life. Located adjacent to the Meletos Cafe, Ernie’s Bar is the newest addition to the precinct – a place to unwind and enjoy a drink and a bite with friends old and new.
When we first took over the Meletos Brewhouse space in 2019, the plan was always to create a stunning bar for those wanting something casual yet classy: a place for friends and family to settle in for an afternoon of shared-plates, tasting-paddles and wines or for wedding guests dressed to the nines to enjoy a cheeky martini before the festivities kick off (and a cheekier negroni afterwards!).
Whilst it may have taken a little longer than expected thanks to a certain pandemic, we are incredibly excited to officially be opening the doors this weekend.
Your host at Ernie’s is the enigmatic John Yankovski, whose lifelong dedication to the art of whiskey has been utilised to its full potential in the curation of our drinks list. From handpicked Australian distilleries to renowned international producers – John has curated a selection of the world’s best whisk(e)y’s you’ll have a hard time finding anywhere else.
On top of this we, of course, have the full collection of Meletos Beers, which we recently launched following the arrival of our new brewer Jacob Turoy. The Meletos core range showcases a classic Italian Pilsner, IPA, Pale Ale and Draught. Also available are two limited edition beers made in collaboration with Devilbend Farm Beer, in honour of Oktoberfest.
If whiskey and beer is not your thing, our remarkable mixologist Giustino Della Vedova has worked closely with John to create a cocktail menu full of the classics, all with a cheeky Ernie’s spin!
We warmly welcome you to Ernie’s Bar and invite you to make yourself at home.
Ernie’s Bar is open Friday to Sunday from 11am onwards. Walk-ins only.
Meletos | Sunday Charity Nights, September 2023
Every month, as part of our ongoing commitment to our community here in the Yarra Valley, we feature a local organsiation and we donate 10% of Proceeds from Sunday Evenings at Meletos. In September, our hearts led us to support the wonderful cause of Animal Aid.
Our journey to Coldstream, where Animal Aid resides, unveiled not only the dedication of their staff and volunteers but also the profound impact that generous donors have on their mission.
Amid the evolving landscape of the post-pandemic world, a trend has emerged: the slower adoption rates of puppies. With more people returning to traditional work environments, there has been a decline in the amount of puppy adoptions. This shift has had a ripple effect, extending to breeders who are now faced with surplus puppies and, consequently, overflowing shelters, many housing purebred puppies in need of loving families
Further adding to their challenges, Animal Aid has observed a transformation in the timing of "kitten season." Typically expected in mid-spring, the organisation now experiences a constant influx of kittens throughout the year.
One thing did become immediately clear to us throughout our visit to Animal Aid. Kittens and puppies, with their boundless energy and zest for life, are quite difficult to photograph.
We chose Animal Aid for our September Charity in order to give the animals the best possible chance at a happy life. By visiting us at Meletos on Sunday evenings you can enjoy a meal knowing that you’re helping a worth cause. Book your table here.
If you’d like to help Animal Aid check out their website, who knows, you may even leave with a new best friend.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, September 2023
Spring has finally sprung, and for September our Winery of the Month is none other than Thick as Thieves.
Our Winery of the Month concept began as an effort to highlight the wonderful work and wines being produced right here in our own backyard and has evolved into a month long celebration ending in a winery take-over event. Keep an eye out for more information on this event as we near the end of the month.
Syd Bradford initially started Thick as Thieves as a virtual operation in 2009, buying in fruit and renting wine making facilities, and after years of hard work, he finally achieved every winemaker's dream and purchased the Cypress Ridge vineyard in 2012. This gave Thick as Thieves not only a permanent home base and security that allowed for the growth of the business, but also the inheritance of mature Pinot vines that have come to produce the fruit for the esteemed Thick as Thieves premium pinot noirs.
As a self proclaimed ‘one man show’ from tending the vines, crafting the wines, marketing and selling the products, Syd has the freedom to create wines and wine styles that he enjoys himself and feels creatively inclined towards. Ever known for crafting unique and experiential varieties of wine, Syd aims to make wines that are textural, fruit driven and savory, that are innovative and interesting to drink. Syd feels that through experimentation, while also embracing and acknowledging seasonal differences, he is able to keep his wines on people's radar, while also ensuring he is still producing quality, lively wines.
To showcase the innovative nature of Thick as Thieves, and Syd himself, we have selected the 2023 Arneis and 2022 Gamay to feature this month here at Meletos. Having recently won ‘Best other white variety or blend’ at the Yarra Valley Wine Show, Syd describes the Arnies as a textural, medium-bodied, barrel fermented white, that just screams out for perfect food pairing.
The 2022 Gamay is a beautiful light bodied red, with a lovely savory earthiness to it, and fine grainy tannins that can be chilled coming into the summer months.
The name ‘Thick as Thieves’ eventuated from Syd finding out the true meaning of the phrase after years of misunderstandings. He instantly pictured ‘best buddies’ sharing all their secrets over a glass of wine. So we invite you to find your partner in crime, and come down to Meletos to enjoy a lively glass of Syd’s wine and some equally delicious food, as according to Syd, the best way to enjoy a glass is with your best friends.
Find out more about Syd and Thick as Thieves at https://tatwines.com.au/
Book a table at Meletos here.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, June 2023
Another month, another fantastic winery we are celebrating here at Meletos. This month, we are featuring wines produced by the local Warramunda Estate.
Although the owners of Warramunda, Robert and Irene, hailed initially from the hospitality industry, their one true passion has always been wine. They purchased Warramunda in 2007, along with their daughter Liv, and produced their first vintage in 2013. In one word, Robert describes his winemaking style as intuitive, letting the final product be led by instinct and vision. Robert, along with his daughter Liv, aim to create wines that are bespoke, handcrafted wines that are truly reflective of the specific qualities of the Coldstream site, vineyard, and fruit they produce. They operate their business and vineyard with sustainability front of mind, from their viticulture practices, to how they produce their wines with minimal intervention. Being a family owned winery, it has always been Robert and Irene’s intention for their daughter Liv to eventually take over Warramunda Estate, while also continuing to produce wine under her own label ‘Liv Zak’. Liv Zak wines gives Liv the opportunity to produce small volume, unique wines that are made with excitement and energy, contrasted to the Warramunda Estate wines which are made in a more classic and traditional style.
Robert speaks with knowledge, enthusiasm and love when it comes to his wines and vineyard. It was a true delight to have him come in and talk with our staff about his beautiful wines. The feature wines we chose this month were the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2018 Viognier. Robert describes both wines as passion wines, and wines made from the heart. The Cabernet Sauvignon was handpicked, naturally fermented with wild yeasts, and in barrel for 18 months. Robert highlights the precise balance this wine has, between the tannins, acidity, and alcohol, the wine is beautifully harmonious on the palate. One can expect a violetty, floral nose, dark fruits on the palate as well as clove and cedar, and a lovely earthy length. The 2018 Viognier, similarly handpicked, pressed to barrel, to all old oak. Left on lees for 6 months before bottling, this viognier is slightly waxy and dry, with a medium acidity but holds onto its lovely floral palate.
Robert believes that a glass of Warramunda Estate Wines is best enjoyed after a hard day work, with friends over some great food, and a cuban cigar, and whilst we can’t make any promises on the cuban cigar, we here at Meletos can promise a delicious meal, a glass of Robert’s lovely wine, and all you have to do is bring your friends.
Click here to book a table at Meletos!
For more information on Warramunda Estate and Liv Zak, head to their website: https://warramundaestate.com.au/
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, April - May 2023
Here at Meletos, each month, we select a local Yarra Valley winery to highlight on our wine list. This is to acknowledge the wonderful work of some local icons and showcase the incredible wines being produced by some of the wineries in the stunning region we call home.
This past month, we have celebrated the wines, and works of Dominic Valentine of Valentine Wines. After his time spent learning the art of Riesling from winemakers in the German region of Rheingau, he came back inspired to create similarly textured and layered wines, but with a uniquely Australian interpretation, and so Valentine Wines was born. Dom seeks to produce wines that truly reflect the year and season in which they were grown, and that honor the area and site in which they are produced. We selected his iconic Riesling and rich Grenache as our feature wines this month. Dom describes the riesling as a layered, textural beast of a wine. Barrel & stainless steel fermented, combined with some skin contact creates a zesty, zingy riesling that brings a grippy mouthfeel allowing the length of flavor to linger on the palate. The Grenache, as he would describe it, is identified by its highly unique tannin structure. Picking the fruit earlier to retain natural acidity, along with some whole bunch pressing, this grenache gives bright red fruits, complemented by the combination of acidity and tannins.
Dom is one of those people you meet that is just so keen to share their knowledge and passion for all things wine. His own passion for wine, and wine making was ignited in Margaret River, with his time spent working in some well known wineries and under the mentorship of some industry greats. He acknowledges the great influence these mentors had in fostering his passion for wine and the wine industry. Dom now generously fosters others' passion for wine through industry events, even kindly offering his knowledge, story and time to our staff here at Meletos, of which we are so appreciative.
Dom believes wine is best enjoyed over good food and with good friends. His wines are made with the thought, desire and intention to compliment a beautifully and lovingly prepared meal, one that has been created in the effort of providing an experience for the guests.
So, come join us at Meletos, for a glass of Dom’s delicious wine, a lovely meal, and let us create a beautiful experience for you and your guests.
Happy International Womens Day
International Women's Day is a globally recognised day that is observed on the 8th of March every year. The day is celebrated to recognise the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the world. It is also a day to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles and challenges that women face in achieving gender equality and empowerment.
The theme for International Women's Day varies each year, with recent themes focusing on issues such as gender parity, women's rights, and women's leadership. This year, however, the focus is on embracing equity.
International Women's Day is an important reminder that gender equality is essential for the progress and development of societies worldwide. It is a call to action for everyone to work towards creating a more equal and just world for all genders.
In honour of this significant day, we sat down with some of the incredible women that keep Stones of the Yarra Valley and Meletos running so seamlessly.
Let us introduce you…
We asked our Creative Director Vonnie and some of our wonderful team, Fiona, Teesha, Blon and Rebecca some questions about being a woman and the importance of International Womens Day. To our team, this is not only important to get to know the wonderful women that we work with, but to highlight how incredible it is to be a woman and what we can do as we strive for equity.
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Vonnie: Starting with an 1860s derelict abandoned Barn in 2005, we were able to create a beautiful wedding venue that I am so incredibly proud of. We had a crazy dream and through a lot of blood, sweat and tears (and then more tears), we have achieved our dream. We then continued to build The Stables, Meletos, The Farmhouse, The Providore, The Dayroom and No7.
Fiona: I love the moment just before the bride walks down the aisle. I love the intimacy and the anticipation. It’s a privilege to open The Chapel doors and see the ceremony unfold perfectly.
Rebecca: Working through post-Covid times in the Private & Corporate Events world (along with the rest of the world). I had postponements, cancellations, new bookings and so many other factors to work through whilst rebuilding our team. It was a fast-paced work environment and there was always something exciting happening behind the scenes and we all got through it.
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Vonnie: Without doubt my proudest moments as a woman was to have 3 fantastic children. My sons are adults now, and I have always felt that as a mother I know I will always love them no matter what, but to be able to say that I really like them as people is a great achievement that I’m very proud of.
Fiona: Moving to the Middle East solo in my twenties. Doing the Oxfam 100km walk in less than 24 hours and of course giving birth to three incredible humans! There are also little daily moments that bring me joy.
Teesha: As well as my own achievements, I really enjoy watching other women achieve their goals, often through challenging circumstances. We are so strong when we build each other up with support and encouragement.
Rebecca: Without a doubt my two beautiful children Mason & Connor. Being a mum brings a whole new meaning to your world.
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Vonnie: Women who can juggle a busy growing family, a partner, and be able to come to work with a beautiful happy disposition, like our Fiona, inspire me immensely.
Fiona: Creatively - Vonnie, Teesh, Kate and Tali from The Providore are my inspiration! Their floral installations are so breathtaking and always so unique!
In life, it’s the single mothers of our world - they are the ultimate heroes of life.
Blon: I think one woman who I find inspiring is Reece Witherspoon. Whilst best known for being an actress, and starring in the hit rom-com Legally Blonde, she is a fierce woman's advocate and businesswoman. Noticing a huge, and unequal gap in the market for women's stories being ignored in film she began her own production company that focused on making productions centred around strong female roles and stories - as she has said "if you want something done, you have to do it yourself". She played a major role in both the #metoo and #askhermore movements which focus on taking a stand against sexual assault in the workplace and sexist reporting. She encourages women to work hard for what they want, to be ambitious and to be the change they want to see.
I admire her ambition as a businesswoman, her refusal to be underestimated, and her willingness to consistently raise other women up, highlighting the inequality faced by women and constantly fighting for better.
Rebecca: Honestly, working here with so many incredible women at Stones/Meletos. 90% of our departments are headed by incredibly inspirational women; Finance, Wedding Planning, Styling, Sales, Marketing, Housekeeping, and HR, all of these women are so inspiring!
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Vonnie: I try to be positive and to keep believing in myself - this empowers me to continue through the busy and frantic days of weddings. People notice this. The women of the world have a kindred spirit - and when all else fails a very big hug and a good cry helps us all.
Fiona: I stay connected, I notice subtle changes, I always check in and I like to laugh even when times are tough, you just have to find light in the darkness.
Rebecca: Staying positive & building each other up is so important to stick together.
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Vonnie: It is simply an acknowledgment of how great we all are. We all need to continue to multi task our way through life with a smile and a positive mind, and maybe a glass or two of wine.
Fiona: This is a complex question and ultimately I hope we don’t need a dedicated day for this. Women are powerful and enduring - they are entitled to equality, safety, success and freedom. By raising awareness and telling the stories of ordinary and extraordinary women, we can be hopeful for the future.
Blon: I think it's important to celebrate International Women's Day to look back on how far the women's rights movement has come, to acknowledge the women in the world and within our lives that fight for change and to remind ourselves to continue supporting each other, and fighting for better within our own lives, and for women everywhere.
Teesha: It's great to celebrate being a woman now and important to acknowledge those who have come before us to pave the way for ourselves and the Women of the future.
Rebecca: Women are a force to be reckoned with. We are fierce, adaptable, smart, loyal, intelligent, and caring just to name a few. What's not to celebrate?
To our entire female team, thank you for being you! We would love to hear from you - leave a comment on the blog below with your answers to these questions or send us a message on Instagram at @stonesoftheyarravalley.
Happy International Womens Day!
By Georgia Watson, Marketing Coordinator