James Booth

BOOTH'S TAMINICK CELLARS

James Booth

'It becomes a part of you,' states James Booth on his decision to ply the family trade. 'When you've got that history, it's very hard to step away.'

Since the turn of last century - when Esca Booth discovered the richness of historic Glenrowan's granite soils - one Booth after another has continued the family's winemaking legacy. Only a few things have changed with technological progress - even vines from 1919 still stand - one of those being an orchard bursting with peaches, the pet project of James' father, Peter.

But wine is still singularly the most important focus for Taminick Cellars. The family haven't felt the urge to open a café/restaurant, amply serviced by the likes of Baileys and Auldstones nearby. James sees the appeal of the area as being the massive diversity in food and wine over a mere 40km radius - 'it's a gourmand's idea of heaven.'

The youngest Booth winemaker has been officially creating new wines since 2004 when he took up the reins from Peter. He talks proudly about his innovations, particularly a new type of shiraz that's been on the agenda over the last few years. 'It's made by picking the grapes early,' says James. 'It's matured in French oak, has a lower alcohol content and a very different taste to the usual shiraz.'

Another grape variety that piqued James' interest recently is nero d'avola. Described by James as 'Sicily's answer to shiraz', he considers it to display more of a savoury background. Having only planted the vines last year, you'll have to wait until about 2012 before sampling this intriguing new drop but, as Taminick legend would have it, it'll be well worth the wait.

Open seven days a week

Booths Road, Taminick

Tel: 03 5766 22 82

www.taminickcellars.com.au