Ralph was National Marketing manager at Orlando wines for fifteen years prior to founding his own estate. Kellermeister have been handcrafting wines at their boutique winery for a long time now. It all began in the late 1970s as Ralph and Val Jones sat with gum boots on, ankle deep in water, labouring tirelessly into the night together. Over many cold winter’s nights, in a small tin shed perched above the valley floor, they laboured - kept warm only by the glow of the love they shared and the fire that was their dream for Kellermeister. Their aim was to produce wines of unique character - wines true to the German traditions of the Barossa Valley which was so richly influenced by the Silesian settlements of the 1840s. And so it was, through much love, sacrifice and hard work that Ralph and Val Jones brought their dream to life.
For many years Kellermeister has been selecting grapes from a rich tapestry of vineyards throughout the Barossa and Eden Valleys. From the old shiraz vines that line the road winding up to the cellar door, to the rugged Wild Witch block nestled in the Lyndoch hills, to the riesling rows that follow the contours of the Eden Valley hillside - each vineyard has it's own unique characteristics, which they bottle into their wines. Adding to the charm of each vineyard are the personalities behind the vineyard - a team of dedicated and passionate local growers, who work tirelessly throughout the year to produce the exceptional fruit that is the life blood of Kellermeister wines.
Today Kellermeister stands amongst the top rated wineries in Australia. Ralph and Val Jones invite you to discover the magic of Kellermeister. From their famous mud brick cellar door, through to the stunning views over the beautiful Barossa Valley - the unique interest and pleasure of their wines won’t be the only thing to take your breath away.
Trevor's most recent successes came from Robert Parker when he was awarded two perfect 100 point scores (the first time ever assigned by The Wine Advocate) for the Old Barossa Tokay and the Barossa Liqueur Shiraz Tawny. These awards were recently followed by Best Boutique Riesling for the 1998 Eden Valley Riesling, awarded by Boutique Wines of Australia 2000. Well done Trevor!
In true Aussie fashion, Kellermeister have managed to keep just how exceptional the wines are pretty quiet. Well, until recently that is, when Australia's leading authority on all things wine, James Halliday, spilled the beans in his definitive Australian Wine Companion.
James classified Kellermeister with the highest possible winery rating - five bright red stars. This prestigious designation is only bestowed upon a handful of wineries across Australia in recognition of the consistent production of wines of exemplary quality and typicity - just the sort of wines that Kellermeister have been making for over 30 years. The only problem Kellermeister have, is that they're not sure how long they can keep their handiwork a secret.
Drop in to the cellar door to experience the warmth and charm of their famous boutique winery. Experience the breathtaking views over the vineyard to the rolling hills beyond, take in the history of the mud brick cellar door and soak up the ambience by the fire or on the lawn, as you discover the magic of their wines. The friendly cellar door team will walk you through current vintage wines and take you back in time to vintages past, an experience that will linger on the palate and last forever in the mind. Stay for a while and make up a mouth watering cheese platter from a selection of locally produced goods. Whether it’s just for one, or to share with friends, you can make it your way!
Kellermeister have plenty to keep the kids entertained, whether it’s kicking the Sherrin or playing tag on our huge lawn area, or playing a board game indoors, they’re sure to enjoy the Kellermeister experience as much as you. When the time comes to move on, Kellermeister are more than happy to arrange for you to take a memento of your experience with you.
