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Recognising the potential of the Southern Highlands region for premium wine and olive oil production, the Phillips Family purchased and established, on 42 hectares of farm land , McVitty Grove Vineyard, on the Wombeyan Caves road, just out of Mittagong.  Vines were planted on 5.5 hectares of deep, fertile and sun drenched soils at the front of the property. Varieties were chosen carefully to ensure the best suitability to the region”s cool climate and high altitude. Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris vines are now producing premium quality fruit. With a view to creating diversity and establishing a foundation from which to grow a unique on-site visitor facility, 1.5 hectares of olives were also planted. This flourishing grove now provides the backdrop for a Cellar Door and Café. McVitty Grove has been established as a specialist Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris producer. These varieties are well suited to cool climate viticulture and have already demonstrated capacity to perform exceptionally well on the site. It is no mystery that to produce outstanding wine, vineyard management and fruit development is critical. The McVitty Grove Vineyard was initially established and nurtured via the careful attention of viticulturalist Andrew Stewart. Yields are retained at low levels and whilst fruit is protected from pests and disease, minimal input techniques are applied, to ensure the grapes develop their own flavours and characters. Andrew, following his success at McVitty’s has now moved on to an executive position with Australia’s leading wine company. Selection of a winemaker for McVitty Grove wines was a crucial decision. In addition to great winemaking skill, experience with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris from a cool climate region were essential criteria. Winemaker Nick Spencer, formerly from Madew Wines in Canberra, had great success in producing award winning wines for McVitty Grove.Nick has also moved on but provides valuable overseeing of McVitty’s continuing establishment with Geofrey continuing to manage the winemaking The new owner brings the scientific approach of a successful oncoplastic surgical practice, and the precision and competitiveness of a high level yacht racing pastime, to hopefully continue the above traditions.