Ernest Schuetz Estate Wines

Ernest Schuetz’s involvement in the wine industry started in '88 at the age of 21. Working in various liquor outlets and as a sales rep gave him an in-depth understanding of all aspects of the wine market. In ’23, he and wife, Joanna, purchased the Arronvale vineyard (first planted in ’91), at an altitude of 530m. When the Schuetzs acquired the vineyard, it was planted to merlot, shiraz and cabernet sauvignon, and they have since grafted 1ha to riesling, pinot blanc, pinot gris, zinfandel and nebbiolo. The estate plantings have been complemented by other varieties purchased from other growers. A new winery and cellar door are set to open late ’24. -JAMES HALLIDAY