Local residents Gerry McCormick and his partner Sue Limberger have established the newest winery in the Riverina – HAREFIELD RIDGE, with the release of their first commercial vintage under the brand – COTTONTAIL.

Both Gerry & Sue have been longstanding residents of Wagga Wagga.

In September 2002, Paul Hudson from Cropsol in Griffith was commissioned to analyse the soil structure on the property.

After sampling 12 pits at various sites, he reported that the "decomposed granite" soil had an ideal structure and neutral PH idealy suited to the production of premium wines.

Paul introduced Gerry to John Casella from Casella wines the Yenda based export winning Australian wine company in October 2002 and a 5 year contract to produce grapes for Casella Winery was agreed on a handshake prior to the planting of the Shiraz and Chardonnay vines.

Harefield Ridge has been supplying Casella with fruit over the past 5 years destined for inclusion in their "Yellowtail" brand that has achieved stellar sucess on overseas markets over the years.

The vines were supplied by James Vardenega from Australian Quality Vines, also from Yenda, a subsidiary company associated with the Casella Group 

Their winery is situated approx. 15 km to the northeast of WAGGA WAGGA on 100 acres of undulating land with 10 acres of vines planted in November 2002.

The initial planting of over 6,500 vines were planted by hand using a water pressurised technique due to the extreme dryness of the soil as a result of the severe drought conditions.

5 acres each of SHIRAZ & CHARDONNAY grapes of the RAMSEY rootstock variety have now been established with a further 2 of acres of Cabernet Sauvignon to be planted in August 2010.

The healthy soils on their property have created full-bodied wines with a smooth balanced flavour, and a soft taste that lingers to enhance the complex berry fruit flavours.

The initial release of their wine has received strong recommendation and support, and has just been released into the local market.

The original winemaker – Chris Thomas from Tumbarumba has an established reputation in the area as a vigneron with flair, with unique skills to complement the quality fruit. He has tutored Gerry & given him a thorough training schedule, which has resulted in Gerry now producing the last 3 vintages of Cottontail Wine on the property at the new winery facilities 

This initial release of wine was made at Tumbarumba Grape Processors Factory, but the new facilities at the property are fully functional & with the recent construction of the purpose built Restaurant & Conference Facility, visitors can now see the  machinery & equiptment used for the winemaking through the viewing area in the restaurant.

The unique label design pictures a Hare on the front label, one of many living on the property. Keep an eye out for the distinctive design you will be refreshingly rewarded.

Cottontail wines are available at the Pattersons Road Cellar Door/Restaurant for Tasting & Retail Sales to the Public during opening hours or at the following Hotels, Restaurants and Retail Outlets in the Wagga Wagga, Junee, Deniliquin, & Mathoura areas.

Hotels & Liquor Outlets:

Wagga Wagga- Wagga RSL Club, Union Club,  Riverina Co-Op, Wagga Cellars, South City Liquor, Duke of Kent

Wagga Restaurants:  Indian Tavern Tandoori Restaurant,  The Monastry Brasserie, Clancy's Restaurant at the Carriage House Quality Inn

Junee: Red Cow Hotel, Junee Co-Op/IGA, Junee Ex Services Club

Mathoura:  Mathoura & District Bowling Club

Deniliquin: Deniliquin Bowling Club,  The Crossing Restaurant