Villa d'Esta Winery Dyers Crossing
Set in the picturesque Manning Valley,Villa d'Esta winery is a family owned vineyard producing preservative free wines using traditional Hungarian methods. The owner, Zollie, welcomes guests to his vineyard and has a reputation for long chats and enjoyable wine tasting sessions. Well that's what I had read on many of the Trip Advisor reviews before I made my way to Villa d'Esta on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
The entrance is up is on a dirt road that gives views of the sweeping hills, trees and cattle. As you drive up you soon set eyes on the part of the 17 acres of grapevines that produce mainly three varieties of wine; Chardonnay, Chasselas Dore and Chambourcin.
The wines are aged in oak barrels.
On my arrival Zollie greeted me and made me very welcome. I joined a Russian family who are regular visitors to Villa d'Esta, in fact have visited for the last nine years! The wine came out and Zollie is very generous with his tastings, so if you are the driver take note of that! I enjoyed a taste of the Chardonnay, Chambourcin and Cabernet Sauvignon. All delicious, and since I am not a wine expert all I will say is 'very drinkable'. Visitors can purchase these lovely wines for $25 each.
Villa d'Esta is a beautiful property and in November I am told the Jacaranda trees on the top of the hill are stunning! Zollie tells me he retired 17 years ago, however I find that a little hard to believe! In his place, his manager, Reuben, has been learning on the job for 12 years. It's easy to see that both Zollie and Reuben (pictured below) are passionate about producing these wonderful preservative free wines.
If you are in the area and love wine then it's worth a visit to Villa d'Esta and whilst you are there you can also purchase a range of homemade goodies from the Cellar Door that are made on the property.
2884, Wallambah Rd., Dyers Crossing, NSW, 2429,Phone: (02) 6550 2236
