The Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association congratulates Colin McBryde and Jennie Gardner, on their remarkable achievement of being awarded Vineyard of the Year in the highly coveted Young Gun of Wine Awards announced at a trophy presentation in Melbourne on Tuesday night.
This national recognition emphasises their unwavering dedication and commitment to viticulture, while also highlighting the outstanding quality of fruit produced by Clare Valley growers on a national scale.
The Young Gun of Wine Vineyard of the Year Awards were founded to bring vineyards and their stewards into the limelight, to celebrate the tireless work amongst the vines, the special sites, and the commitment to sustainability on all levels.
Nestled in the picturesque Springfarm sub-region and planted in the 1900s, the Adelina Vineyard holds a special place within the heart of the Clare Valley. Despite facing recommendations to start afresh and re-plant the vineyard in 2002, Colin and Jennie remained steadfast in their commitment, preserving the vineyard which is surrounded by the renowned Wendouree and Aberfeldy vineyards that define the sub-region.
Through their meticulous and holistic vineyard practices, Colin and Jennie have transformed the Adelina Vineyard. They have nurtured the old vines, ensuring they will continue to produce outstanding fruit that express the unique characteristics of the Clare Valley for generations ahead, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and distinction.
“I am humbled and honoured to receive this award,” Colin said. “It is a great privilege to be part of a community that recognises the significance of site and farming.”
Furthermore, in addition to receiving the Young Gun of Wine Vineyard of the Year Award, Colin was announced yesterday as one of the nine shortlisted winemakers selected nationally for the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion Winemaker of the Year Awards. This prestigious recognition further highlights Colin's expertise and invaluable contribution to the Australian wine industry.
Hon Martin Ferguson AM, Chair of the Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association, extends his heartfelt congratulations to Colin and Jennie on their national recognition.
"We are proud to have Colin and Jennie as valued members of our association," said Ferguson. "Adelina Vineyard is a shining example of the exceptional vineyards within the Clare Valley. It is also terrific to see another vineyard, Art Wine also from the Springfarm sub-region of Clare, make it to the top 50 vineyards in Australia, further demonstrating the quality of vineyards in our region.
“Their achievements not only enhance the position of the Clare Valley wine industry, but also serve as a testament to the presence of our growers and winemakers on a national scale,” he said.
The Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association invites everyone to raise a glass in celebration of Colin and Jennie's achievement. Their commitment to growing Clare Valley grapes and the recognition they have received nationally in the Young Gun of Wine and Halliday Wine Companion Awards is confirmation of the exceptional vineyards and wine crafted in the Clare Valley region.
