management and oak sourcing. A significant step up in quality was achieved between 2003 and his retirement in 2016. This has been recognised in the Australian secondary wine markets where wines from his era are well appreciated by collectors. It also led to further exploration and research into how wine, oak and oak types interact during the maturation process. Leeuwin Estate’s Winemaking Team Simone Furlong points out that the business team rarely interferes with the workflow of the winemaking team beyond normal financial controls and regular catch-ups. This is a tradition that harks back to Leeuwin Estate’s earliest days. This collaborative approach promotes creativity, respect and a sense of purpose, and it allows team members to be themselves. Their individuality, enthusiasms and detailed knowledge bring a distinct and optimistic family character. This energy and professionalism translates into the image and reputation of Leeuwin Estate itself. The winemaking team is remarkably tightly knit, with visions to progress the Leeuwin Estate story. Former geologist and viticulturalist David Winstanley arrived at Leeuwin Estate in 1999 and shadowed John Brocksopp (‘a very fine mentor’)
before he retired in 2002. Since then, original ambitions have been respected, but new perspectives and improvements have been made over the last 20 years. Of note is Leeuwin Estate’s commitment to sustainability and conservation. The previously neatly managed vineyards have become a ‘mess’ of vine health, biodiversity and energy, but the quality of fruit, as the wines attest, has progressed. During recent times, Winstanley’s experience and knowledge has also been backed up by Augusta local Lane Williams, as Assistant Viticulturist, with over 20 years experience in the region From left: Snr Winemaker Tim Lovett, Viticulturalist David Winstanley, Winemaker Phil Hutchison
10 The Wine Journal – 2023
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