Kel Boynton

BOYNTONS FEATHERTOP WINERY

Kel  Boynton

Kel Boynton is an inspiration. Responsible for opening the first winery in the Alpine Valley region, he and his team/family have weathered all manner of obstacles - fire, frosts and the fine balance of finances - to reach their 20^th year of business.

'He is the hardest worker I know,' says his wife and business partner, Janelle. 'Not much stops the drive and he is known by all the others in our business as having so much stamina. He builds, crushes grapes, digs holes for posts all day - from daybreak to after sunset. He just keeps going like a long-life battery.'

Even though the success of Boyntons' Feathertop label is undeniable, Kel says they still consider the vineyard a work-in-progress. Initially built on vacant farmland, the property was chosen because of its spectacular views of Mt Buffalo. Kel then hand-built the beautiful stone terrace walls that give the winery much of its ambiance and makes it an idyllic place for wine tasting or enjoying lunch at the café.

'This region is truly sustainable,' remarks Kel, despite the many hardships over the years. 'Our vineyard is unirrigated, which means we produce cool climate grapes without any watering - just what comes from the sky.'

'In 2004, we rebranded "Boyntons" to "Feathertop Wines",' continues Kel. 'During this process, we lessened the varieties we sold and concentrated more on the wines we thought were our best. The wines are designed as being approachable and food-friendly. We've also started producing some new varieties like albarinio, prosecco and vermentino, which most likely will be an exclusive to our Wine Club members.'

When pushed to detail the distinctive qualities of the Alpine Valley wines, Kel pinpoints the region's sauvignon blancs as being 'spectacular'. 'Maybe we should apply a few millions to marketing the region and give the Marlborough in New Zealand a run for its money?' The secret is out...

Cellar door open 10am-5pm daily

Café open 11am-3pm during spring/summer

6619 Great Alpine Road, Porepunkah, Victoria

Tel. 03 5756 2356

www.boynton.com.au