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Long Gully Estate’s aim is to produce the best possible distinctive, cool climate Yarra Valley wines, at extremely competitive prices. Long Gully produces three tiers of wines: the outstanding “Signature Series”, the impressive “Premium” range and the relaxed, value-for-money label - “Cheery Giant”. Our wines have gained worldwide recognition, gaining 9 Trophies and over 300 medals at major shows. Our 2005 Reserve Merlot won the award for best Merlot in Victoria at the prestigious, Government sponsored, Federation Square Wine Awards, for the second consecutive year in 2010.
Reiner and Irma Klapp purchased their 40 hectare property at the northern end of the Yarra Valley near Healesville, and for the first ten years grazed cattle on their weekend hobby farm. In 1982 they could no longer ignore the enormous potential to produce premium quality grapes. Initial plantings consisted of Riesling, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon later being joined by other classic varieties.
Long Gully Estate is one of the larger “boutique” vineyards in the Yarra Valley, with 22 hectares, with a crush of approximately 100 tonnes per vintage. Wines are made from fruit grown on the Estate (except for a small parcel of Shiraz grapes from a premium contract grower in Heathcote, to produce the Major Creek Shiraz and the Limited Edition Premium Shiraz).
The aspect of the vineyard is on the western facing slope of the 'Long Gully' valley, which aids in the drainage of cold air on frosty mornings. The ongoing south-westerly wind through the Gully has helped fight vine disease by keeping foliage cool and dry.
Winemaking at Long Gully Estate is now the responsibility of Han Tao Lau, a graduate of the University of Adelaide. Prior to Han joining the Long Gully team, he had completed vintages in McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, St-Emilion (France), Pfalz (Germany) as well as several other major wineries in the Yarra Valley. His wealth of experience has solidified a sound understanding of various wine styles, including cool climate wines.
In 2002, Long Gully Estate decided to massively reduce crop levels, in order for limited yield to produce premium quality grapes. Viticulturist, Aaron Bailey, has a great deal of experience in cool climate wines. To maintain optimum fruit quality, Aaron uses the latest techniques, ideas and equipment, and implements organic methodology where possible.
Marketing, promotion and export is conducted by the family’s youngest son, Oliver, who gave up his career as a flight instructor to become more closely involved in the family’s wine-producing passion. Administration is managed by Irma (hence flagship wine 'Irma's Cabernet'). Peter Willis & Ian Wood make up the sales team at Long Gully Estate, and between them contribute over 40 years of wine industry experience.
Most Long Gully Estate wines are aged in French oak casks and barrels, approximately 30% of which are replaced each year. Experimentation with casks of varying 'toast' is also carried out to achieve wines of distinction and balance.
Whilst we have established a firm and loyal client base in Australia, the company currently exports to Switzerland, Singapore and China.
The Long Gully Motto: Life is too short to drink bad wine!
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