The origin of the Australian vineyard in the Coonawarra area (state of South Australia) dates back to 1893, when the "Laira" vineyard was created. It was bought by Eric and Nancy Brand in 1946. But it was not until 1966 that Eric Brand produced the first wine under the "Brand's Laira" label. At that time it covered 23 hectares of vineyards. In 1990 the Multi McWilliams took over 50% and in 1994 the remaining 50%. The sons Jim (cellar master) and Bill Brand remained in responsible positions. The official label designation is now "Brand's of Coonawarra". There was a major expansion through the purchase of 165 (Station Block) and 100 hectares (Kirkgate Vineyards). Today, the winery covers 300 hectares of vineyards, mainly planted with the red wine varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot, as well as the white wine varieties Chardonnay and Riesling. The flagship wines are the very alcoholic and long-lasting red wines "Stentiford's Reserve" (Shiraz) and "Patron's Reserve" (Cabernet Sauvignon), which are very strong and persistent with 14.5% vol. According to Australian tradition, also spritzer wines are produced in the style of sherry and port.
I have great respect for the scope and quality of the wein.plus encyclopaedia. It is a unique place to go for crisp, sound information on terms from the world of wine.
Dr. Edgar Müller
Dozent, Önologe und Weinbauberater, Bad Kreuznach