In 1999, after several study visits to Spain by Yalumba luminaries Robert Hill-Smith and Louisa Rose, Tempranillo was grafted onto old Barossa rootstock. Known to thrive in a range of conditions around the world, Tempranillo has an affinity with the Barossa region, where an ideal climate helps to showcase the stylish fruit flavours of this emerging variety. The experimental fruit of Hill-Smith and Rose whet their appetites and led to further plantings.

Encouraged by the success of their BarossaTempranillo, Hill-Smith planted Tempranillo in their Wrattonbully vineyards three years later. The vineyard site was chosen for its soil types, principally shallow red soils over limestone, undulating aspects and reliable climate. Vermentino’s willingness to thrive in the hot, dry conditions of the Riverland and its terrific approachability make it a welcome addition to the group.

All Running With Bulls grapes are grown with an emphasis on vineyard sustainability, in the warm and dry conditions little intervention is needed. This achieves a healthy and diverse population of natural microflora that piggybacks on the grapes into the winery and begins the natural fermentation. The results are an Australian interpretation of the native styles of Spain and Italy, expressing individual regional characters.