The foundations of Renzaglia Wines were laid in 1982, in the most unlikely of places, when winemakers Guy and Betty Renzaglia planted a small vineyard in the dry county of Alto Pass, Illinois, USA. Fifteen years later, their son Mark and his wife Sandy established their eponymous label in the Wambuul Valley, within the cool climes of New South Wales’ Central Ranges.
Today, third-generation winegrower Sam Renzaglia has taken the reins, expanding the range with new wines that showcase the breadth of styles possible across this diverse winegrowing zone.
The new releases draw fruit from across the Central Ranges, with vineyards spanning Wallington in Canowindra, Patina and ChaLou in Orange, and First Ridge in Mudgee.
“One of the most exciting aspects of working with a small group of dedicated grape-growers is the opportunities for collaboration,” says winemaker Sam Renzaglia. “We are like-minded and enjoy robust discussions about viticulture, always with the shared intent of striving for the highest quality possible.”
“In the winery, our approach is guided by the essence of each variety. We aim to capture their inherent character without interference, which means no added yeast, tannin, sugar, or acid. We’re using very little new oak and instead working with an array of fermentation and maturation vessels: concrete, earthenware amphorae, stainless steel, foudre, puncheons, barriques and even glass. It’s an elaborate toolbox designed to nurture wines that are engaging, honest, and true to their origins.”
This collection may well be the first to so openly champion the Central Ranges, one of Australia’s largest and most diverse winegrowing zones.
“It’s a privilege to have access to such outstanding vineyards, across varied sites, elevations, and vine ages,” Sam explains. “Our focus is always on expressing the best characteristics of each variety while delivering value. The vineyards we work with may evolve over time, but that’s part of the joy – learning through collaboration with different growers and exploring the remarkable diversity of the Central Ranges.”
