'With its imposing gates, and architecturally designed building, this property stands out against the backdrop of rolling hills. There are two blocks in the hundred-acre vineyard, the 'old' block planted with Chardonnay and Pinot, which are over 20 years old, and the 'new' block, which has some experimental varieties such as Arneis. You can eat in the well-priced Vines Restaurant, wander through the gardens, or drink in the view of the hills from the casual BBQ area.' SALLY GUDGEON
Helen's Hill Estate is a family-owned vineyard. The 5th generation to farm, the Nalder and McIntosh siblings and their families are passionate about producing wines of exceptional quality.
It's the fruit from the "old block" vines (planted in the early 1980's, making them among the oldest in the valley) with which Helen's Hill makes it classic cool climate varieties.
Helen's Hill follows "Old World" wine-making traditions, adding the benefits of "New World" conditions and trends to make a better wine. They produce classic wines, steeped in hundreds of years of history, along side some funky new ones - for example a Shiraz Viognier blend, Evolution (a barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc), their hall mark Cabernet blend and a host of others.
These wines are available primarily at the cellar door, so invest some time in yourself and check them out. (Helen's Hill also has a wine club, with member perks such as wine maker functions, access to limited releases, product discounts and winery tours.)
Just up the hill from the cellar door is Vines Restaurant - heaven for the senses.
Create special weddings and superb functions with Vines staff - inside or in the flat, manicured gardens.
Private dining rooms and gourmet barbecue facilities are also available.