Steel’s Gate is located in the Yarra Valley, one of Victoria’s best-known wine regions.
Steel’s Creek is a tranquil, still setting that houses a boutique vineyard with decades-old pinot noir, cabernet, shiraz, and chardonnay grapevines.
Steel’s Gate, which is almost surrounded by National Park land, adds even more to the sense of serenity.
We caught up with Matthew and Brad to talk about the history of Steel’s Gate and what it has to offer visitors.
Can you tell us about the history of your winery?
Steels Gate, a boutique winery and vineyard located in Steels Creek, Victoria, Australia, is the home of a boutique grapevine. This 82-acre property (33 hectares), which National Park almost surrounds, grows Chardonnay grapes and Pinot Noir grapes on 6 acres of vines (2.5 hectares), most of which were planted in the 1970s. Steels Gate began in 2009.
The Shantell Vineyard & Restaurant is situated in the picturesque Dixons Creek hillside, just 60km away from Melbourne’s heart.
The majority of the vines at Shantell Vineyard were planted in the late 1970s.
For Matthew, Brad, and Sebastian, wine is all about family. There is nothing more rewarding than making and growing premium wines together as a whole family.
Matthew and Brad are passionate about the wine industry. They opened their first retail store in 2004. In 2009, Matthew and Brad bought their first vineyard to get closer to the winemaking. After focusing on viticulture for some time, they decided in 2016 to build a new winery. The family is very excited to present their 2017 vintage, as it’s the first time they have produced the wine together. Matthew & Brad have announced the opening of Shantell, their first restaurant and cellar door. We love to be in the vineyard with our son and make wine. “There is nothing better than making and growing premium wine as a family.”
What are your favorite wine varietals?
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Blanc de Blanc, Pinot/Chardonnay Sparkling, Pinot Noir Rose, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Semillon.
Can you tell us a little bit about your winemakers/winemaking process?
Matthew and Brad have been managing the viticulture of their Home Block Vineyard for the last nine years. They make wine that expresses all the natural characteristics of the fruit grown on each site. A well-managed vineyard is the foundation of premium wine.
Is there a restaurant on-site, or are you able to offer food tastings at your hotel?
We do have a restaurant on site that looks out over the Shantell Vineyard. We do not offer food samplings, but we have a two-course and one-course menu for groups.
Do You cater for Special Events?
Yes. Byron and Jane are responsible for the food at Shantell. Their food philosophy is based on using local and fresh produce and keeping their menu simple and beautiful. They have over 50 years of combined experience in the hospitality sector.
This family of foodies, who look after the food at Shantell, is driven by the belief that “there’s nothing better than friends getting together to enjoy wine and food with laughter.”
We can cater to almost any event with our fully-catered kitchen. From bespoke cooking lessons in our kitchen overlooking the vines to private dining and wine tasting to small weddings, we can cater for all occasions. ….
Imagine eating outside amongst the grapes. It is a delight to dine outside, even on a chilly Yarra Valley day, as long as there is sunshine. (Don’t worry if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate when you come; we also have an indoor location with a beautiful view of the Valley! ).
After a personal tasting hosted by either Brad Atkins or Matthew Davis from Steels Gate Wines, you’ll be seated at a table amongst the 40-year-old grape vines.
Many visitors rate Many visitors rate Steels Gate @ Shantell as having “the best view in the Yarra valley.” You will enjoy a three-course meal and beautifully matched wine. The food is prepared by Chef Byron More on-site using local ingredients and, when possible, grown on-site. The colors are stunning, whether they’re the autumn leaves on vines, the late sun reflecting off mountains and clouds, rainbows in the sky, or the autumn leaves.
There are no subtleties overlooked. Throws are provided for those who do not feel warm enough from the sun during their unique dining experience.
How does your winery differ from the others in the region?
1. Amazing Wine (Quality & Range)
2. Enjoy the views of the vineyards and surrounding area from both the cellar door and restaurant
3. The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable
4. Special Food
