Orlando

Its roots date back to 1847 when Bavarian immigrant Johann Gramp planted vines on the banks of Jacob’s Creek (see separate entry). The first vintage was riesling, still a valuable variety for the estate today, which went on to establish the historically important close-planted, high-altitude Steingarten vineyard in the Eden Valley in 1962. Today, Orlando sources fruit from both the group’s broader vineyard resources and from long-term contract arrangements with local growers. This has ensured consistent vineyard management and the ability to scale with demand. For a commercial offering, Orlando has done exceedingly well in recent years, diversifying its portfolio and introducing premium tiers for specialty wines and luxury releases. The stewardship under Vinarchy and winemaker Tim Pelquest-Hunt (who has been with Orlando since ’13) has seen a strengthened ambition to modernise viticultural practices, deepening the philosophy of making commercially competitive wines that reflect their terroir while honouring the brand’s founding heritage. -KATRINA BUTLER