Samuel’s Gorge


— About —

Established in 2003, the wines of Samuel’s Gorge are crafted by hand and reflect the landscape in which they are grown. A composition of harmony and intrigue, driven by aromatics and texture.

The name Samuel’s Gorge was inspired by the local historical figure Sir Samuel Way. He owned the Seaview homestead, where the winery is now housed in the original blacksmiths and olive press house. The Gorge is the dramatic landscape from the winery.

The core varietals of Samuel’s Gorge thrive in the Mediterranean climate of McLaren Vale, tempered by the cooling sea breezes from the Gulf of St Vincent. The five key varietals Grenache, Mourvèdre, Graciano, Tempranillo and Shiraz showcase the rich tapestry of the Vale and its diverse geology. Sourced from the best vineyards, acquired through Justin’s long standing grower relationships.

Justin McNamee had intended to get a taste for McLaren Vale and move on with his wine odyssey. Adding to his experiences, of vintages in the Yarra Valley, central Victoria and overseas. He fell for the region and its diverse richness, completing eight vintages at Tatachilla. In 2003 he relocated to the peaceful old farmhouse on the hill to begin the odyssey of Samuel’s Gorge. Now with 25 years of experience making Grenache in the Vale, Justin is not just passionate about this varietal, but a deft hand.

Winemaking at Samuel’s Gorge engages patient techniques, utilising indigenous yeast, ensuring the ferments are long and slow. There is no fining, ensuring the wines are vegan friendly and limited filtering. The wines are driven by aromatics, texture and silkiness whilst reflecting the unique vintage conditions.

Riley Harrison joined the Samuel’s Gorge team in 2015, as assistant winemaker, with a background in viticulture. The allure of the winery was strong “It’s the complex interaction of science, creativity and environment in a bid to generate flavour”. After vintages in Germany and Portugal, he returned to the Barossa Valley. But it was his love of Grenache that brought him to McLaren Vale.