‘FROM NOWHERE TO SOMEWHERE’ LEEUWIN ESTATE is an Australian masterpiece and represents the dream of coming ‘from nowhere to somewhere’. It is an accidental creation born from happenstance and naivety yet steeped in ambition and generosity. Since 1969, Tricia and Denis Horgan have played an important role in defining the Margaret River wine region’s identity. Their vision to ‘produce wines that rank with the best in the world through the pursuit of excellence’ has been fulfilled in their lifetime, achieved by brilliant planning, hard work and a remarkable fidelity to nature and nurture. The expressive Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay is the jewel in the crown and all around it are reflected in its glory. This monograph explores the history and making of Leeuwin Estate from 1969 to the present day. It also comprises vertical tasting reviews and highlights the collectability and longevity of its wines. As a specialist wine auctioneer, I witnessed first-hand the growing stature of Leeuwin Estate from the mid-1980s. The 1987 Leeuwin Estate Chardonnay was the first Australian white wine to break the $100 (per bottle) mark at auction. Its lasting quality and individuality are well known and appreciated by aficionados around the world. But it is also an historic label because of its profound connection with the Gingin clone and the lateritic soils of the Margaret River. This prolifically planted clone has shaped the destiny of Margaret River Chardonnay and places this regional style as one of the greatest in the world. Moreover, Leeuwin Estate is now a cultural centre and destination for wine, art and music lovers. The soaring stands of karri trees and natural amphitheatre have become an iconic feature of the Western Australian landscape. Margaret River Cape Leeuwin is where great forces of nature, propelled by the Roaring Forties, create a natural foment. It is here that the great Southern Ocean collides and confluences with the Indian Ocean.
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Volume 1 – Leeuwin Estate
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