The Randall Wine Group has closed the Gemtree cellar door in McLaren Vale.
A message on the Gemtree Facebook page says, “Due to the extraordinarily difficult wine industry challenges at present, we have made the tough decision to close the Gemtree tasting room.
“Our wines are still available to purchase on our website and at your local retailer.
“We sincerely thank everyone who has visited and supported us over the years.”
Weekend manager Jimmy Smallman told The Advertiser the news came out of the blue.
“It was a bit of a shock,” he said. “There was no inclination that we were getting the boot… we’d just got new branding and glassware.”
The shock closure follows the announcement in February that Teakle Wines in Port Lincoln will close at the end of March.
In March last year Endeavour Drinks closed the Shingleback cellar door in McLaren Vale
The company said at the time, “The difficult landscape of rising operational costs, reduced expendable incomes and tourism fluctuations, like many other hospitality business are experiencing, were pivotal factors in this difficult decision.”
In October last year Vinarchy announced the impending closure of the St Hallett site in the Barossa including the cellar door.
Gemtree is known in Australia and around the world for its organic wines.
The Randall Wine Group – which also owns Seppeltsfield and Penny’s Hill – bought Gemtree three years ago.
At the time of the sale Warren Randall said, “Organic wine production presents a big opportunity.
“Gemtree is both a valuable and natural addition to the group.”
The winery was established by Mike and Melissa Brown in 1998.
WBM – Australia’s Wine Business Magazine is seeking further comment from the company.
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