WINE NEWS
CUMULUS WINES HAS A FRESH NEW LOOK Cumulus Wines has launched a fresh new look for its signature Cumulus Estate Wines brand, with the new packaging rolling out from September. When its key ranges Rolling and Climbing were first released 15 years ago, their distinctive illustrated packaging stood out. Now with the help of drinks specialist design agency Denomination, Cumulus Estate Wines has been reimagined to capture the unique spirit of the brand and region that it represents. Cameron Crowley, CEO of Cumulus Wines praised Denomination’s reputation for creating innovative and successful brands. “Both Rolling and Climbing aim to bring to life the joy of wine and the very special place that gives these wines life – our unique dual appellation vineyard in the beautiful Orange wine region. “In today’s competitive wine market, it’s more important than ever to increase shelf visibility and consumer attention. Our goal was to retain elements of the original design, but incorporate new illustrations with a vibrant, fresh look to reflect the quality of our wines. “Denomination has a reputation for creating beautiful, innovative and successful brands and they have yet again delivered on our iconic Cumulus Estate Wines brand.” Known for its whimsical packaging, Rolling has three new illustrations across the red, white and sparkling varietals. Rolling’s ‘heroine’ character Beatrice features with her faithful dog Cirro exploring the vineyard and the distinct cool climate seasons. The Climbing labels are inspired by the high elevation of the Orange region. The brand’s ‘hero’ Henry is scaling the heights of the single estate vineyard over 600m with local Mt Canobolas in the background. The newly illustrated wrap label includes an embellished circus ticket with serrated edges honouring the history of the travelling circus in the region and surrounding areas. The rollout of Rolling and Climbing refreshed packaging commenced September 2018 and continues through to February 2019.
Craig Grafton, Chief Winemaker, Ferngrove
NEW CHIEF WINEMAKER APPOINTED TO FERNGROVE WINE GROUP Over the last two years, Ferngrove Wine Group has been charting a new path that’s been built on the back of its vineyard investment, new winery facilities and the addition of a new management team, with the most recent appointment of Chief Winemaker, Craig Grafton. Grafton’s appointment will see him responsible for the winemaking and stylistic direction of all Ferngrove wines across its Australian and international portfolio. Working closely with the winemaking and viticultural team, Grafton will guide the style of Ferngrove’s brands as well as transforming the Ferngrove winemaking foundations. Grafton joins Ferngrove from Pernod Ricard where he held a number of winemaking positions over the last 11 years. Recent leading roles including Barossa-based Winemaker responsible for the Chardonnay portfolio, Regional Winemaker and Senior Winemaker at Helan Mountain winery in China for six vintages. A passionate Chardonnay and Malbec advocate, Grafton says he is looking forward to working with the Ferngrove Great Southern and Margaret River vineyards to express the fruit purity of each vineyard site. “My philosophy will be to proudly make Ferngrove wines of longevity, purity and freshness, true to their region and true to their site.” Ferngrove Managing Director, Andrew Blythe said the appointment comes at a time where the business has been undertaking a transformation. “Ferngrove’s long recognition as a quality Great Southern producer followed by Craig’s passionate and extensive winemaking knowledge throughout Australia, as well as the strength of his award-winning winemaking at Pernod, will be a credit to our wine brands,” Blythe said. Grafton’s appointment has already reaped substantial rewards for Ferngrove, picking up Gold and Trophy at the Brisbane show for best Shiraz of the show.
