Cook family estate is a boutique winery producing wines from the premium cool climate region of Orange.
Based on the edge of Mount Canobolas, crafting wines of distinction, complexity and elegance which exemplify the regions terroir. Winemaker Duncan Cook studied winemaking at Charles sturt University.
Renowned wine critic Huon Hooke commented that all of his wines are consistently good and remarkable value for money.
Cook family estate works with a number of small growers in Orange, that focus on growing premium fruit. The climate in Orange is strongly influenced by, and largely dependent on elevation. Hence the importance of growing any particular varietal at the appropriate altitude.
Which is why Cook family estate’s fruit is grown in several vineyards at different altitudes and soils, rather than a single vineyard which is often the norm in Australia.
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Useful Links:
The regions website with maps & information by winery and varietal.
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For more information about all the upcoming Food and Wine events taking place in Orange in the near future as well as a interactive Regional App.
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Orange Region
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Initially known as the Central Highlands, the Orange region centred on the slopes of Mount Canobolas, has long been an important orchard area producing apples, pears and cherries.
An experimental viticultural station was established at nearby Molong in the 1940s, but vines were first planted commercially in 1980. The climate is strongly influenced by, and largely dependent on, the region's elevation. The soils vary widely and are of fundamental importance in determining site selection. Orange is at the heart of one of the most beautiful and productive areas in NSW. Orange and its surrounding area are enjoying a growing reputation for rare and exotic produce thanks to its cool climate and rich volcanic soils. The produce ranges from stone fruits and sheep’s cheeses to fungi and grapes. Don't miss the local Farmer's Markets - a genuine drawcard for foodies! The region is home to many small premium operators and the main wine styles produced are Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot and Shiraz.
Climate:
The climate is strongly influenced by, and largely dependent on, elevation. Overall, mild to warm midsummer mean temperatures, seldom rising above 32°C (90°F), are offset by cool to very cool nights during the growing season. The rainfall predominates in winter and spring, while the three driest months are February, March and April, making supplementary irrigation highly desirable. Wind is both friend and foe. On the one hand it helps to reduce the major threat of spring frosts. On the other hand, it interferes with fruit set on sensitive varieties such as Merlot. Other than spring frosts and climatic aberrations such as light snow in December, the major threat is from birds, which relish the grapes as an extension to their diet.
Soil:
The undulating countryside is not only very attractive but is of fundamental importance in determining site selection. The soils vary widely, reflecting the different geological strata rock and fall into four main groups. The first are the well drained, friable, deep red-brown clays derived from basalt that are found near Mount Canobolas. Second are the deep red-brown, yellow-brown clay loams of mixed origin, including volcanic ash. Both these two soil groups promote considerable vigour. The third is a red-brown podzolic clay loam of medium vigour overlying a medium clay and shale base interspersed with gravel, which assists with drainage. Finally, there are patches of terra rossa associated with visible limestone at the lower elevations.
Vital Statistics:
Orange
Map Coordinates: 33º 15´S
Altitude: 600 - 900 metres (1968 - 2952 feet)
Heat degree days, October-April: 1200 - 1309
(cut off at 19ºC (66.2ºF) but otherwise not adjusted)
Growing season rainfall, Oct-April: 440 millimetres
Mean January temperature: 19.9ºC (67.8°F)
Relative humidity, October-April, 3 pm: Average 47%
Harvest: Mid March - early May
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Liquor Act 2007
IT IS AGAINST THE LAW TO SELL. OR SUPPLY ALCHOL TO OR TO OBTAIN ALCOHOL ON BEHALF. OF, A PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF 18 YEARS.
COOK FAMILY ESTATE
COOK FAMILY ESTATE PTY LTD
No. LIQW880015010
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