The alluvial topsoil on which the vines thrive is estimated to be 15 metres deep. No-one can be certain because no digger or soil profile has been able to extend beyond the initial layer of topsoil. This extraordinarily fertile terroir has been likened to parts of the great French wine-making regions and differs from most of the Hunter Valley, where high clay levels require laborious soil amelioration to overcome its shortcomings.

Our winemaker has established an enviable reputation for producing excellent Hunter Valley wines. He insists on the highest quality fruit with baume (sugar) levels as close to the ideal as is viticulturally possible. Large commercial wine producers cannot afford the dedication to fruit quality that the smaller boutique vineyards enjoy.

The property lies adjacent to the historic Gillies Bridge, a classic example of 19th century timber beam and composite truss bridge-building techniques. Three spans, one of 21.2 metres and two of 10 metres, were book-ended with earthwork approaches. The bridge cost a then astronomical amount exceeding 1,300 pounds and was opened in June 1902. The bridge timbers are testament to the longevity of narrow leaf ironbark (eucalyptus crebra), sourced from nearby ridge country. Our original research indicated the bridge was one of only two remaining in NSW. However, we have recently learned it is the only remaining bridge of its type still standing.

The Maitland Mercury of May 5, 1902, reported: "Mr Oakes [the builder] has completed Rothbury Bridge and all hands give him credit for having carried out his contract to the letter. He has spared no pains in making a thorough good job, and one that will last for generations."

The newspaper was certainly right about that.

The bridge was opened by the wife of John Gillies, the local MLA of West Maitland, amid three cheers for the King and a healthy consumption of local wine. A newspaper account says "the flags of all nations" lined the bridge. It was refered to as Gillies Bridge, though it was also known by other names by the locals.

The old bridge timbers once set up a thunderous roar every time a car crossed, but since new timber was laid on the deck in the middle of 2004 it has become almost eerily silent. Still, we are very attached to our old bridge, as you can witness in the naming of some of our wines, our logo at the top of this page and, of course, in the photo below of yet another party at the bridge.