Wine By Farr

The Farr estate, nestled in the historic Moorabool Valley between Geelong and Ballarat, spans a region renowned for its rich volcanic soil and unique microclimate. This area, with a winemaking heritage dating back over 200 years, is where Gary and Robyn Farr chose to plant their roots in 1994. The estate has since expanded to 130 acres, with 36 acres dedicated to vines and the rest to grazing and cropping for cattle and horses.

Gary Farr, a revered figure in Australian winemaking, has been a stalwart in the Moorabool Valley since 1978. Known for his straightforward demeanour and meticulous approach, Gary's winemaking philosophy was honed through experiences at Domain Dujac in Burgundy, Cristom in Oregon, and Calera in California. His profound admiration for Shiraz and Viognier, influenced by his time in France’s Rhône Valley, is reflected in his wines, which capture the true essence of their terroir. Despite handing over the reins to his son Nick, Gary’s influence remains strong, ensuring the wines meet his exacting standards.

Nick Farr, carrying on the family legacy, has infused his winemaking with a blend of tradition and innovation. After working alongside his father and gaining experience at Rosemount in the Hunter Valley, Nick established his label, Farr Rising. His international stints at Cristom, Au Bon Climat in California, and Domain Dujac in Burgundy further enriched his expertise. Nick's passion and distinct style have earned his wines acclaim both in Australia and overseas, complementing the esteemed By Farr line created by his father.

The estate’s vineyards benefit from the unique microclimate of the Moorabool Valley, influenced by western plains winds and sea breezes that moderate temperatures. The low rainfall, combined with significant day-night temperature variations, contributes to producing low-yield, intensely flavored fruit. The soils, ranging from rich volcanic loam to limestone, quartz gravel, and ironstone, provide excellent drainage and low fertility, essential for cultivating premium grapes.

The Farr estate focuses on varietals such as Viognier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Shiraz, each benefiting from the diverse soil types and climate. The complex soils and challenging environment foster wines that are not mainstream but are authentic expressions of the vineyard and land. As Nick Farr aptly puts it, “The wines we make are not mainstream—they are expressions of our vineyard, our land, and what we like to drink. That is what we promise to deliver.”

With Gary’s watchful eye and Nick’s innovative touch, the Farr estate continues to produce exceptional wines, deeply rooted in tradition yet forward-looking in their approach. This dedication to their craft and land ensures that the wines from the Farr estate remain a true testament to the unique terroir of the Moorabool Valley.