Q: Darren, welcome to the All Saints Wine Club! Can you tell us about your background in the wine industry and how your journey led you to become our Wine Club Manager? 

A: Thank you! I originally hail from the UK, where I began my career as a chef. After moving to Australia in 2009, I delved into the world of wines, gaining experience at Langton's in Sydney and VinoMofo in Melbourne. My passion for fine wines eventually led me to All Saints Estate, and I'm thrilled to be part of this esteemed team. 

Q: As our new Wine Club Manager, how do you define the distinction between fine and normal wines? 

A: I believe the key differences are a few crucial factors. Firstly, there's the concept of terroir, encompassing the natural environment where a wine is produced—factors like soil, topography, and climate. Then, there's the art of winemaking, combining state-of-the-art equipment and a blend of new-world and old-world techniques. Lastly, the cellaring potential plays a vital role; wines with longevity, careful use of oak, and a cellaring potential of 10+ years showcase complexity and attention to detail. 

Q: Could you share with us your top three favourite wines and what makes them stand out for you? 

A: Certainly! Currently, my top three favourites from All Saints Estate are: 

1. 2022 All Saints Estate Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre. This medium-bodied wine has a lifted perfume, crushed berries, and dried herb aromas. The richness of spicy plum and dark fruits leading into an elegantly balanced finish is what captivates me. 
2. 2021 All Saints Estate Alias II. Alias II is a blend of Shiraz with the addition of Muscadelle (5%). While I have yet to detail the taste profile, including Muscadelle adds an intriguing element to the blend. 
3. 2022 All Saints Estate Pierre.This is a carefully crafted blend of traditional Bordeaux varieties, featuring generous fruit notes of redcurrants and blackberry, along with soft, fine tannins. The balance between fruitiness and tannin structure makes it a standout choice. 

These wines reflect my appreciation for elegant, blended reds and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating them. I'm excited to share these discoveries with our Wine Club members!

I’d love for members to reach out and say hello. I can be reached at [email protected], or you can catch me at this year's Tastes of Rutherglen - Find ticketshere.