Walking in the Footsteps of Legends
Best known for their classic regional Shiraz and Semillon, produced from some of the most historic vineyards in the Hunter, Mount Pleasant’s award-winning history dates back to its early beginnings.
Established by winemaker Maurice O’Shea in 1921, Mount Pleasant’s history is rich in legends, legacies and exceptional wines. Mount Pleasant is widely considered the birthplace of Australian winemaking and O’Shea’s reputation still stands as the grandfather of Australian table wine and a pioneer of the industry.
More than 90 years on, the equipment and names have evolved, but the principles and the vineyards remain the same.
There have only been five Chief Winemakers at the helm throughout Mount Pleasant’s 98-year history. Today, the team are led by Chief Winemaker Adrian Sparks who has instilled in his team a philosophy focused on sharing the best of the Hunter Valley told through every vineyard and every glass. Adrian is following in the footsteps of some of Australia’s most celebrated winemaking alumni including not only the late great Maurice O’Shea but more recent winemakers the likes of Phil Ryan and the highly celebrated Jim Chatto.
This commitment to quality has resulted in countless awards and ongoing recognition for their efforts which include Adrian Sparks bestowed with the prestigious title of Winemaker of the Year at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Gala and the Mount Pleasant team walking away with seven trophies at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show.
The top performer was the 2018 Rosehill Shiraz, receiving five trophies including Best Red Wine in Show and Best Named Vineyard Wine of Show. This was the second year running that Mount Pleasant had been awarded the trophy for NSW Wine of the Year, following the success of Old Paddock and Old Hill Shiraz 2017 at the 2018 awards ceremony.
With two wines already on the gold-medal winner's list at the 2020 ICC NSW Wine Awards (see page 26), we will have to wait until October 23rd to see if the Mount Pleasant Trophy cabinet needs to be expanded. We strongly suspect it will!
Whether you are just starting your journey of wine discovery or you are well versed in the wonders of wine, a trip to the Mount Pleasant Cellar Door is a must for all visitors to the Hunter Valley. For more information or to book for a wine tasting, visit www.mountpleasantwines.com.au
