Yarra Ridge was the brainchild of a lawyer, Louis Bialkower, who bought the land in 1982. The following year, Louis planted five hectares to Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The reputation of Yarra Ridge grew, and from 1989 to 1995 every vintage of Yarra Ridge Chardonnay that was shown at wine competitions claimed a trophy.
The 1992 Chardonnay was judged Best Premium Chardonnay at Australia’s National Wine Show in Canberra. In the following year the 1993 Yarra Ridge Chardonnay won Best Current Vintage Dry White at the same show. Since Beringer Blass entered the scene, in 1993, the Yarra Ridge winery and vineyards have expanded and improved at a dynamic rate. The original five-hectare planting has become 60 hectares, but the philosophy has remained the same. At Yarra Ridge, the wine is made in the vineyard.
Many viticultural innovations have been introduced, among them are trellising systems such as the Geneva Double Curtain, Scott Henry and Lyre. The results of these viticultural innovations are extremely encouraging. Fruit ripeness has improved and the incidence of disease has been considerably reduced.
The cellar door team at St Hubert’s are excited about the addition of the Yarra Ridge wines to their range. Yarra Ridge Sauvignon Blanc and the Shiraz have been particularly popular with their fruit driven, drink now style. These easy drinking table wines represent an excellent choice of for those who appreciate today's busy but relaxed pace of living.
