Pet Nat | Riesling | Marsanne Roussanne Viognier | Grenache | GSM | Barbera | Syrah | Gin

A new story on your doorstep

Grapes from the Grampians and barrels in Bayside might be a surprising combination but they’re connected by an interesting story from Rory at the Story Wines.

Many winemakers yearn for the country life, but Rory is a self proclaimed city boy who found himself studying viticulture a few moons ago.  He worked some vintages in Oregon in the USA, and whilst there he enjoyed Portland’s many micro breweries.  In the early noughties, that wasn’t a thing in wine, but Rory wondered why not, and set his sights on making it a thing.  From then on, he was set on opening his own urban winery.  And here he is, almost twenty years later opening his Moorabin urban winery doors to you.

Rory is famous for his Shiraz.  Why such a focus on Shiraz when there's a lot more hype and conversation around emerging varieties today?  When Rory started out Australian Shiraz was most well known for the rich and ripe South Australian expressions.  Inspired by the Rhône, Rory wanted to counter that and lean into the classic Shiraz style Western Victoria has long been respected for.  If ever there’s a reason to shun the Shiraz naysayers, it’s with a tasting through Rory’s classic cool climate expressions of Shiraz/Syrah that receive critical acclaim year after year (he is often a Halliday & Real Review top winery).  True to the Rhône, there’s also Grenache (a rarity in the Grampians), Mourvèdre, a GSM combo of all three, a lesser seen but wonderful Marsanne Rousanne Viognier blend and more recently he’s ventured a little further afield with a King Valley Riesling and Chardonnay (to his wife’s delight) and a much anticipated Grampians Barbera.  Still thirsty?  There’s an Aussie inspired gin to wash it all down with.

Why the Story?  Alas, not because it rhymes with Rory but as a comparative literature graduate it seemed suitable as Rory believes every wine has its own story, so much so every vintage of Rory’s Grampians Shiraz carries a different label, in honour of its individuality.  Each label is as unique and colourful as the last.  Labels matter and Rory has worked that out with the help of his wife’s best friend who brings to life distinctive and engaging labels which rival the juice inside.

Rory brings a contemporary energy to the classic region of the Grampians and with his newly opened urban winery, a wonderful wine experience right on Melbourne’s doorstep.  We can’t recommend it enough.

Time from Melbourne CBD | 25 minutes

Wine RRP | $36 - $85

Rory offers three tasting options, starting at $45 per person. Hosted by Rory, including a winery tour and $10 credit redeemable per person.

Book here.