In a market where benchmark Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are increasingly commanding steeper premiums, Victoria, Australia, delivers a refreshing reset. This seminar explores the reality of what these grapes can achieve when the heavy hand of winemaking is completely stripped away—offering world-class quality and profound terroir transparency that lets the region's ancient soils speak.
Join us for a deep dive into soil, site, and the new wave of Australian winemaking, featuring:
Jonathan Ross MS (Moderator): Co-Founder of Legend Imports and co-author of the critically acclaimed How to Drink Australian. Drawing on a career that spans from Head Sommelier at Eleven Madison Park to Beverage Director for Australia’s Rockpool Group, Jon will set the baseline for the region and guide the session.
William Downie: Representing the pinnacle of site-specific Pinot Noir in Australia. Bringing a pedigree that includes time at Bass Phillip in Gippsland, as well as Domaine Fourrier and Hubert Lignier in Burgundy, he will focus solely on the old soils of Gippsland.
Patrick Sullivan: Showcasing cool-climate Chardonnay grown on ancient volcanic soils, driven by an intensely hands-on, detail-oriented approach in the vineyard to achieve flawless transparency in the glass.
Event Timeline:
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | The Masterclass A focused, sit-down guided tasting and seminar led by Jonathan Ross MS, William Downie, and Patrick Sullivan.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | The Portfolio Mixer A casual, go-at-your-own-pace tasting showcasing multiple producers from the Legend Imports portfolio. Grab a snack, network with peers, and explore the new wave of Australian wine.
Trade Status & Access: SEATS STILL AVAILABLE. This is a private, trade-only event offered in partnership with Legend Imports and Grapevine Wine Company. Priority access is reserved for active wine buyers and qualified sommeliers seeking education on Australian terroir. Seats for the masterclass are limited.
