About the producer
By Farr was founded in 1994 by Gary and Robyn Farr on a parcel of land in the Moorabool Valley at Bannockburn, between Geelong and Ballarat.
Gary arrived with fifteen years' experience as chief winemaker at neighbouring Bannockburn Vineyards, where he had helped establish the region's reputation for Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and formative vintages spent working alongside Domaine Dujac in Burgundy.
The Moorabool Valley's cool, dry climate and prevailing winds make it a demanding site to farm, and it is this exposure, combined with the variation between the estate's basalt, limestone and ironstone soils, that gives each By Farr wine its distinct character.
"The microclimate of the Moorabool Valley is influenced by winds from the western plains and bracing sea breezes, which regulate the temperature on long, sunny days and cool the air overnight. This climate is key to producing naturally balanced, low-yield fruit that is rich in flavour"
- By Farr
The estate has since grown to 130 acres, of which 36 acres (roughly 15 hectares) are under vine, planted progressively across distinct sites including Sangreal, Farrside and the original home block.
Today the winery is run by Nick Farr, Gary's son, who has overseen the estate's winemaking for two decades and was named Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine in 2020.
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