The volcanic soils of the Baw Baw Shire
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In this episode, Huon Hooke visits West Gippsland to meet Patrick Sullivan, one of the region’s most passionate advocates for cool-climate viticulture.
Patrick shares how a university lecture about climate change set him on the path to Gippsland, a region that stood out as an “anomaly,” where the climate seemed remarkably stable. Drawn by its volcanic soils, high rainfall, and soft light, Patrick has built his winemaking philosophy around the expressive potential of dry-grown pinot noir and chardonnay.
He explains how deep-rooted vines in these basalt soils access a rich array of nutrients, contributing to the saline, textural complexity that defines his wines. As more young, driven winemakers move into Gippsland and technology makes precision viticulture more accessible, Patrick sees the region becoming one of Australia’s most exciting frontiers for fine wine.
Just an hour from Melbourne, the snowfields, and the coast, Gippsland is uniquely positioned for both high-quality viticulture and wine tourism.