In 2012, the Wiley family bought the property that would soon become The Six Js Estate. The property had previously been a very successful vineyard, winery and restaurant, run by John and Lynne Derwin. Roundstone Vineyard previously won many awards and recognition for its wine, particularly the Gamay. In February of 2009 the Black Saturday fires devastated the Roundstone Vineyard that John and Lynne had built. All that survived was the hay shed and the sheep. Sadly, John and Lynne were unable to rebuild and made the difficult decision to sell in 2012 after reinstating the vineyard and harvesting grapes in 2011 and 2012.
Upon purchase of the property, the only structures were a portable classroom (1950's vintage) sitting on one of the concrete foundations of a prior dwelling, and the hay shed. There was no drinkable running water and there was only power to the pump shed. The great fortune was the bulk of the vines survived. Deciduous "green" trees and plants have shown to be very resilient to the fury of the fires and the vines proved no exception. We do however have about 1500 "gaps" in our vineyard and we continue to slowly replant. It is slow work but progress is being made. Currently, we have approximately 12 acres of vines at The Estate.
Upon purchase of the property, the only structures were a portable classroom (1950's vintage) sitting on one of the concrete foundations of a prior dwelling, and the hay shed. There was no drinkable running water and there was only power to the pump shed. The great fortune was the bulk of the vines survived. Deciduous "green" trees and plants have shown to be very resilient to the fury of the fires and the vines proved no exception. We do however have about 1500 "gaps" in our vineyard and we continue to slowly replant. It is slow work but progress is being made. Currently, we have approximately 12 acres of vines at The Estate.
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The inspiration behind the name came from the six children of Christine and Malcolm. Partly accidental and partly by design, all six children have a middle name beginning with "J". The inspiration goes beyond the name. All of the children take an active part in many of the wine making and viticulture tasks.
Prior to 2016, De Bortoli wines managed the vines and used the grapes for their wines. In 2016 the Wiley family began to run the viticulture at The Six Js Estate. Currently, our grapes are sold to a number of wine makers who value quality fruit and the care we take to ensure consistency from season to season. In 2018 we made our first wine and The Six Js Estate was a fully functioning winery. Our story is really just starting. There is so much more development and creative work to be done at The Six Js Estate. Our passion for creating great wine is without question and being able to live that passion and include our entire family is a great privilege. |
Meet The Family Behind The Wine
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Malcolm ~ The Winemaker.
After decades as a practicing medical professional, Malcolm's love of wine led him down an entirely new path. So began the story of The Six Js Estate. Today, Malcolm plays one of the most important roles in the Estate's operations as our wine maker. Malcolm's vision for the Estate is one that incorporates his six children, the inspiration behind the name, and sees a bright future in which each child has a place.
Whilst Malcolm may be new to wine making, he isn't new to wine. Each barrel is carefully developed to meet his high standard; If it doesn't appeal to his palette, it won't be a product of The Six Js! |
JamesOur key viticulturist, James manages the essential operations of the Estate. Great wine requires high quality fruit, and it is James that ensures our vines meet the highest of standards year round. James is also a key leader at the Estate, guiding and mentoring the other Js throughout the wine making process.
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JosephineJosephine is primarily responsible for the marketing of the Estate, making sure all of our followers are kept up to date on the latest and greatest at The Six Js. She also assists James and John in the maintenance and upkeep of the Estate.
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John
John's high-school artwork appears on our very first vintage label, the 2018 First Light Shiraz. John is also a key worker in the vines, assisting Malcolm & James in their efforts to create the perfect drop.
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Jeffrey
The artist behind our first ever Gamay's wine label, Jeffrey not only embodies the creative spirit at the heart of our wines, but also lends a helping hand around the Estate when needed.
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Jane
With a keen eye for detail, Jane assists in various aspects of daily farm life. From picking to packaging, Jane is an integral part of The Six Js.
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Jethro
Jethro, the youngest of The Six Js, is a bit of a jokester, whose role mostly involves supervising many aspects of the wine making process, all whilst cracking a joke or two!
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AND WHO COULD FORGET
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Manny ~ The 🌟 Of the Show
Our winery would not be complete without its beating heart; Manny! A pure-bred Labrador, Manny ensures all of the Js are staying on task, (that is if the task is giving him food and affection!).
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54 Willow Bend Drive
Steels Creek, 3775 Victoria, Australia |
Victorian Liquor License
License No. 36156299 Drink responsibly. |
WARNING
Under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998, it is an offence:
To supply alcohol to a person under the age of 18 years (Penalty exceeds $17,000)
For a person under the age of 18 years to purchase or receive liquor (Penalty exceeds $700)
Under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998, it is an offence:
To supply alcohol to a person under the age of 18 years (Penalty exceeds $17,000)
For a person under the age of 18 years to purchase or receive liquor (Penalty exceeds $700)