Alkimi's Stuart Dudine on vintage 2020 in the Yarra Valley and Heathcote

Stuart will be joining us for our virtual dinner experience in The Wine Loop on Sat 25th July to talk all things Rhone varietals in the Yarra Valley and Heathcote.

I caught up with him to hear how vintage 2020 has been in this challenging world - and how it looked for his wines including Rousanne, Marsanne, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre …

With thanks to Stuart for the behind-the-scenes shot of what were no doubt some long days! If you'd like to hear more about Stuart's journey in wine, which includes time at Henschke, Yarra Yering and Mac Forbes, and enjoy a heat at home menu prepared by Henry Sugar Head Chef Mike Baker, tickets are on sale now here.

Q. Stuart, how has this vintage shaped up for you? In particular, with the weather and fire conditions across Victoria as well as the current coronavirus situation– how has this impacted Alkimi Wines?

This vintage was exceptional for me. After a dry spring and early summer, the rain came in abundance which kept vines healthy and happy. The harvest was late and attenuated because of the rain and cooler weather but it has led to great flavours and very interesting wines.

Luckily, the fires which devastated much of New South Wales and Victoria had no impact on the Yarra or Heathcote harvest. We were one of the lucky regions.

Due to Covid-19 my restaurant and bar sales dropped to nothing. This forced me to think outside the square to sell wine. I initiated virtual masterclasses which were fortunately very successful. They have been extremely good for both sales and my personal well-being.

Q. In a time where we are staying home more often than not, what would be a good gem of yours to try on a cold winter's evening from your online store?

I have dug up some museum stock to present for my online masterclasses and I have been showing my 2014 Syrah which is drinking very well at the moment. It still has vitality and fruit, but is beginning to show some savoury tones from some bottle age. Being medium bodied, it will stand up to dinner, or a relaxing night on the couch.

Q. 2020 is definitely already turning out to be a hard one to predict.  But what new releases and plans does this year have in store for Alkimi?

I have recently released my new Yarra 2019 Chardonnay and 2019 Pinot Noir wines, and over the next few months, I will release my 2020 rosé and my 2020 “No Additions” range.

I am adopting the “fortune favours the brave” mentality and I feel there are some opportunities out there at the moment. I hope I can be talking about some exciting plans soon!