Winemaker's Pioneering Spirit
Illawarra Mercury
Wednesday May 21, 2008
Like a great Australian explorer winemaker Kim Moginie ventured into the Southern Highlands more than 20 years ago, established a new life and a new wine region.
Moginie, who was working as a winemaker for a large winery, was lured to the Southern Highlands by its cool climate and potential as a major tourist destination.In 1983, he and his wife Frances moved to Berrima and established the highly successful Joadja Vineyards and Winery.With a climate similar to Bordeaux (France), fertile soil, an existing tourist industry, and Sydney and Wollongong markets at their doorstep, Moginie never doubted that he had chosen the right place to start a winery."This new wine region now exists in a very old, established and well-known tourism area," he says. "This wine industry will only complement a very well-liked area already. Our strengths are the potential of our close markets, and the unique flavours and styles these wines show."In 2001 Joadja won the award for the best boutique sauvignon blanc in Australia. It is also highly regarded for the quality red wines it produces.Moginie admits that there were some tough times in the first few years, but says the region's success in producing award-winning wines is proof that his effort was well worth it."Our region is already well known for its scenic beauty, food, accommodation, and ease of access. All we need to do is grow great vineyards and make really interesting, exciting new wines," Moginie says.
© 2008 Illawarra Mercury
