Majella Wines

The Lynn family has resided in the Penola and Coonawarra district for five generations, originally working as blacksmiths and storekeepers before moving into grazing. In 1968, brothers Brian and Anthony Lynn began planting vineyards on their property, which was then primarily used for prime lamb production. They started with six acres of Shiraz and gradually expanded their holdings to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Riesling. For more than two decades, the family sold their fruit to other producers, including a long standing relationship with Wynn's Coonawarra Estate, before deciding to launch their own brand. The first Majella wines were produced in 1991, and the winery remains family owned.

The estate vineyards consist of approximately 60 hectares situated on the eastern edge of the Coonawarra terra rossa strip. This specific terroir features a thin layer of iron rich red soil over a limestone base, providing drainage and mineral character. The region experiences a maritime climate with cool nights and moderate daytime temperatures, which facilitates a slow ripening process for the grapes. Winemaking has been led by Bruce Gregory since the first vintage in 1991, and Michael Marcus joined the team in 2008. The cellar incorporates sustainable practices such as solar power and rainwater collection, while the winemaking approach focuses on reflecting the specific characteristics of the estate grown fruit.

Majella is most recognized for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz based wines, which typically exhibit the mint and dark fruit notes characteristic of the region. The Musician, a Cabernet and Shiraz blend, has received significant attention for its quality and value, earning numerous trophies in Australian wine shows since its introduction in 2005. Other flagship offerings include The Malleea, a premium red blend, and a Sparkling Shiraz that has developed a substantial following. The winery maintains a high standing in the Australian wine industry, frequently receiving five star ratings in the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion and appearing in the Langton's Classification of Australian Wine.