First Ridge

In ’98, under the guidance of the late, world-renowned viticulturist Dr Richard Smart, retired Sydney architect John Nicholas and wife Helen established a 20ha vineyard on undulating hillsides above the Cudgegong Valley. Its soils vary from shallow basalt and quartz on the highest ridges to deeper loams over neutral clays. The varieties planted are mostly Italian: Barbera, sangiovese and vermentino are planted on the ridges; and fiano, pinot grigio, montepulciano and glera (as well as some non-Italianates, including tempranillo, shiraz and merlot) on the deeper soils. The vineyard is managed by Paul Baguley, and the wines are made by longstanding winemaker James Manners (son of famed chef Michael Manners), who ensures the desire of the Nicholases to ‘enjoy tables of abundant food, friends and fiery conversation, not unlike a vibrant Italian table' is met. -JAMES HALLIDAY