The Vineyard

A Vineyard Shaped by Place

Mount Majura Vineyard occupies a unique site near the top of the Majura Valley, where ancient limestone and volcanic rock meet. The vineyard was deliberately planted on an east-facing slope, selected for its soils, aspect, altitude and ability to drain cold air.

The result is a distinctive terroir that helps explain why both Spanish varieties such as Tempranillo and Canberra classics such as Riesling and Shiraz perform so well here.

Ancient Soils

Our soils are formed from a mix of limestone and volcanic rock dating back around 430 million years to the Silurian Period. They have developed into red, iron-rich soils with an almost neutral pH, good water-holding capacity and excellent structure — allowing water to infiltrate and vine roots to grow deep.

A Continental Climate

Canberra’s continental climate brings warm summers, cold winters and significant differences between day and night temperatures. Combined with relatively low rainfall, these conditions create a long, dry growing season well suited to varieties such as Tempranillo, Shiraz and Riesling.

The climate also shares similarities with continental wine regions of Spain, including Ribera del Duero — one reason Tempranillo thrives at Mount Majura.

Altitude & Aspect

The vineyard rises from 660 to 700 metres above sea level. Its sloping position allows cold air to drain away, helping protect the vines from spring frost.

The vineyard also curves around a small hill, creating different aspects and microclimates. We use these differences to match varieties to the conditions where they perform best.

Always Evolving

Our vineyard is constantly evolving. Each year, we graft and replant as we identify the varieties and sites that perform best, while continuing to trial new grapes.

Tempranillo is now our most widely planted variety, accounting for around 17% of the vineyard, while red varieties make up approximately 47% of our plantings.

Our newest area, the Valley Block, was added in 2021 with increased plantings of Riesling, Pinot Gris and Tempranillo, alongside newer varieties including Mencía, Parraleta and Albariño.

The vineyard is made up of several distinct blocks, each with its own history, aspect and character. Visitors to our Cellar Door are welcome to take a walk through the vineyard and explore these different sites:

Dinny’s Block — the original vineyard, planted in 1988.
North Block — planted in 1999, with a north-easterly aspect.
Pines Block & Rock Block — planted in 2000, facing east-west up the slope.
Valley Block — added in 2022, with further plantings of established and new varieties.