Mount Ossa, rising from the pristine wilderness of Tasmania’s Central Highlands, is a dramatic landmark carved by ice and wind. Rugged and commanding, framed by twin dolerite peaks, it is Tasmania’s highest mountain and the inspiration behind the Ossa collection of distinguished wines.
The Ossa wines journey began in 2017 when Rod and Cecile Roberts purchased their 600-hectare farm on the East Coast of Tasmania. Parcels of land in this revered wine growing appellation are tightly held and rarely become available. Captivated by the wild, ancient landscape they knew instinctively that they had found their site. Rod’s background in horticulture and knowledge of the local soil and water dynamics made them confident grapes would flourish on the property.
To better acquaint themselves with the land and its seasons, the Roberts’ first year was spent camping on the farm. To begin, Rod and Cecile focused on reinstating native species and introducing a colony of bees to support their local eco-system.
Next they embarked on their wine-growing venture by planting 20 hectares of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Gris, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc – an experimental mix of varieties to launch their pursuit of expressive, engaging wines grown with integrity.
Now complete, Ossa wines made their inaugural release in 2022. Inspired and informed by the finest traditions of winemaking, Ossa wines are highly sought after for their consummate craftsmanship and limited releases. Born from respect and reverence for the land, and as the result of wonderful collaborations, Ossa wines are a reflection of all those involved in bringing them to life.
Founders
Rod and Cecile Roberts share a deep appreciation for nature and climate. Both were raised on multigenerational family farms; Rod in the north-west of Tasmania and Cecile in the Swiss countryside. Seeing their roles as custodians of the land, they want to regenerate and leave it in better health. Today, they relish the gentle rhythm of their lives, surrounded by the wild beauty of their farm, Belbrook, nurturing their vines and capturing the essence of the land in their bottles.
Winemaker
A passion for cool climate viticulture and varietals brought winemaker Liam McElhinney to Tasmania in 2019. Originally from Marlborough, New Zealand, Liam’s career has taken him to many great wine growing countries beyond New Zealand and Australia, including France, Canada and the USA. Over the past 15 years, his wines have attained both critical acclaim and commercial success, an exceedingly rare feat.
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