Second-generation female business owner Sam McKendry, invites you to sip Spanish varietals in the gorgeous green garden of Vinifera Wines. No rush – you set the agenda here.
You’ll find many family-run vineyards peppered around Mudgee’s rolling green hills. But it’s not so common to wander into a cellar door run by a second-generation young female. Sam McKendry began steering the Vinifera ship in 2020, continuing her parents’ legacy and producing award-winning wines. With a deep commitment to sustainable, organic practices, Vinifera speaks to both tradition and innovation, reflecting her parent’s hard work and a fresh vision for the future.
Vinifera’s story began with Tony and Debbie, the vineyard’s founders, who dreamt of creating something truly special in Mudgee. While most GPs would find themselves busy enough in their 9-to-5, but Tony wouldn’t drop his dream; he began studying Wine Science at Charles Sturt University alongside his job. A few years later in 1993, Tony and Debbie bought the Vinifera property. In 1994, they planted their first vines, making them one of the first vineyards in Australia to grow Tempranillo.
In 1997, a car accident changed the course of their winemaking journey. With Tony physically unable to take on the demands of production, they focused on what they knew best: producing the finest possible fruit. Debbie took charge of the business activity and running the cellar door, while the vintages were contracted to winemakers.
In 2018, their daughter (and current owner) Sam moved back to Mudgee. "I first moved back to Mudgee as a trial, as I wanted a change from my life in Sydney," Sam shares. "I loved being home, being with family, and spending time in the business, so it stuck!".
By 2020, Sam was running Vinifera with a fresh perspective, while still leaning on her parents for guidance. "From 2020 onwards, I have run the business, with the continued support of Mum and Dad (when they're not off on holidays!)," she laughs. Sam’s passion for the family’s vineyard coupled with her digital skills, has steered Vinifera into a new era.
Vinifera’s focus on Mediterranean varietals began with a love for Tempranillo – discovered during their research in the early 90s – along with the success of their first vintage in 1997. Over the years, Spanish varietals like Tempranillo, Graciano, and Garnacha became their hallmark. “Our focus has always been on producing the best possible fruit, and these varietals are a perfect match for Mudgee’s climate,” Sam explains. Today, Vinifera’s premium wines reflect this Mediterranean influence, while also showcasing classics like Chardonnay and Cabernet.
Since taking the reins, Sam has introduced a new style of tasting, one that invites you to explore five wines at your own pace. “People love our tastings as it allows them to set the agenda”, she says. “Some people love to sit and enjoy the wines on their own, soaking in the views. Others love to chat and ask questions as they go”.
Sit back, relax and sip the day away. That’s what the Mudgee Region is all about.
