Despite the challenging past three years for Lobethal’s Golding Wines, the family behind the popular winery is set to tackle 2023 with a newfound resilience.
The family-owned winery and cellar door has been dealt a rough hand since the Cudlee Creek bushfire that destroyed 95% of the vineyard in the summer of 2019/20.
This was followed by dealing with impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as a family tragedy that struck last year.
Nevertheless, owners Lucy and Darren Golding are now more resilient and stronger than ever before.
“It’s been a bit of a rough time,” says Lucy.
“But we’re motivated to get back to where we were in terms of the vineyards, and that’s very much an ongoing process.
“While it’s frustrating, and repairing a vineyard is not a fun exercise, we’re looking for the positives.
“It gives us the opportunity to set up even better for the future and grow some different varieties that people are really enjoying, for example, our gamay.
“We’re trying to find those silver linings wherever we can.”
Golding Wines’ story began in 1995 when Darren’s parents Connie and Greg planted vines and operated as grape growers. Darren went on to launch the wine label in 2002.
Since then, the family has built the business to become a respected wine and event destination with a contemporary-meets-rustic tasting room as well as eatery Ginkgo Restaurant.
In June 2021 the Adelaide Hills community joined the Golding family in mourning the loss of Greg, who sadly died in a car accident.
Lucy says, despite the tough blows they’ve been dealt recently, the family has never considered giving up.
“People have asked us many times, how do we keep going? My answer to that is what’s the alternative? We have no choice and we’re never going to stop,” she says.
“The motivation has always been there.
“We have a great team around us.”
The Golding Wines team had good reason to celebrate recently when it caught the attention of judges at the National Cool Climate Wine Show.
The 2016 Marjorie Blanc de Blancs was crowned champion sparkling and the light-bodied 2022 Ombre Gamay named Champion Wine in the red blends and varietals category.
“Our team takes a lot of pride in what we do and what we produce and so when something like this comes along, it really is a celebration amongst the team for a job well done, and recognition for those wines,” Lucy says.
“It’s also really lovely for our tasting room and restaurant staff to be able to talk to people about the successes behind those wines.”
Golding Wines has recently launched a new drop, the Bel Mosaico Sparkling Rosé, to mark the label’s 20th anniversary.
This summer Golding Wines will also launch its first sparkling shiraz.
With the warmer months and a new year ahead, Lucy says the business has its sights set on exciting projects and opportunities for growth.
“A few things are on the horizon for us and we’re quite excited,” she says.
“We’re just hoping for a lovely summer where we can have people outside enjoying our experiences and the best of the Adelaide Hills. It’s a great spot to be in.”
