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The First Vintage in the Making

2026-02-18

We didn't think we'd be here this fast. But thanks to some incredible local support, Bear Wines is officially happening.

Sourcing the fruit

We spent the last few months driving around Central Victoria, talking to growers who had surplus fruit. It's tough out there for farmers right now. Contracts are being cut, and perfectly good fruit is being left on the vine.

We managed to secure two parcels:

  1. Some beautiful Shiraz from a grower just down the road.
  2. A small batch of Rosé material that was destined to be blended away.

The process

We are keeping it simple. Native yeasts where possible, minimal adds, and letting the fruit speak. The Shiraz went into old oak barrels last week and is tasting mighty fine already.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to bottling.

- Benny