Langhorne Creek has launched its Project 5255 initiative for the 2022 vintage following the success of the inaugural program last year.
Project 5255 last year delivered three exceptional wines, one of which saw South Australian winemaker Charlotte Hardy of Charlotte Dalton Wines take home the top gong of Young Gun of Wine.
Shining a spotlight on the Langhorne Creek wine region, Project 5255 allows winemakers the chance to discover a grapegrowing region they may not have explored before to create a limited-edition small-batch wine under their own label.
In its first vintage, Rob Mack of Aphelion Wines, Charlotte Hardy and Turon White of Turon Wines delivered a Malbec, Fiano and Grenache respectively, each receiving high praise from wine writers.
Charlotte continues to work with Langhorne Creek fruit to deliver her Fiano which sold out within weeks of being released. Similarly, Turon White has committed again to his spicy, deep cherry note Grenache.
“I found the project to be one of those uplifting things you are lucky enough to do in your career that really changes your thinking and direction. I could not recommend this project more,” Charlotte says.
“I entered the Project 5255 Fiano as one of my two wines for Young Gun of Wine – and won it.
“That seems like a pretty good endorsement.”
Langhorne Creek Grape & Wine committee chair Sam Watkins says the project is back this year to entice emerging or established winemakers to explore the region once again.
“We didn’t anticipate the level of interest we received for the inaugural Project 5255 which saw us receive more than 20 winemaker applications,” Sam says.
“The calibre of the applicants was outstanding, and the three finished wines created a real buzz in the industry nationally which is something we’re extremely proud of.”
“We even received feedback from an overseas wine region asking if they could replicate the program.
“Showcasing the terroir of the Creek and its premium fruit was always our number one objective and we think it’s doing just that.”
Anyone with a Producer’s License is eligible to apply for Project 5255.
Applications close at midnight on 15 November 15. For full criteria and an application form click here.
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