By Farr GC Cote Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

The Real Review awarded By Farr, Winery of the Year 2022, a preeminent winery in the Geelong region, its vineyards and winery located at Bannockburn in the Moorabool Valley just outside Geelong city.

The Farr Family established the By Farr brand in 1994, on a north-facing slope in the township of Bannockburn, Moorabool Valley. The original wines included Chardonnay by Farr, Viognier by Farr, Shiraz by Farr, and Pinot Noir by Farr, now known as Sangreal by Farr. With the help of Cassie and Nick, the vineyards have expanded to neighbouring properties, resulting in greater expression of the single-site wines. The wines of By Farr are renowned for their complexity, layered structure and undeniable length, making them highly regarded by both consumers and critics worldwide. The Farr estate is located in the Moorabool Valley, between Geelong and Ballarat, 100km southwest of Melbourne. Gary and Robyn Farr purchased the original property in 1994, followed by a second section in 1998, which had been untouched for almost 40 years. The final piece of the puzzle, linking the two blocks of land, was purchased by Nick and Cassie Farr in 2011, totaling 130 acres. Nick and Gary Farr each have their own winemaking style, which has resulted in their respective lines - By Farr by Gary and Farr Rising by Nick - receiving critical acclaim both in Australia and overseas. 

Nick Farr was Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine's Winemaker of the Year in 2020, but he is always quick to emphasise that By Farr is a family affair and the wines are a team effort. Indeed, Gary Farr won the same award back in 2001. It's the only two-generation winning combination. But the Farrs shrink from the idea that the winemaker is some kind of hero: it's the grape and the land that are important - the wines are a true testament to this.