Far out Brendan, what an amazing conversation and so important, this will be a classic in future decades. You navigated well, BC has never been the easiest interviewee, but you have the industry chops to engage and relate to him. Complimente!
I was introduced to Petaluma brand by American importer Robert Chadderdon Selections NYC in 1985. What an eye opening wine experience Brian Croser brought from Australia. I had friends who claimed the bottles were dull compared to other Oz flashy buttery balls Chardonnay. I shared the distinction is the difference. So glad to see his mantra’s Quality is judged in the vineyard!
Thanks Brendan, an excellent interview. As a "senior" wine consumer, since the late '70's, it is interesting how one's own wine choices, and the industry dynamics interplay It would seem from Brian's perspective, become a viticulturist, not a winemaker. A very complex industry and invaluable opportunity to have a long form interview with one of Australia's wine greats. Interesting how Brian suggested that partners should offer more than just money, and wonderful that his choices helped mentor him in global wine marketing and distribution.
I recall when Petit Verdot from the Riverlands was the next big thing...and then vanished. I think it was the drought that killed hundreds and hundreds, probably thousands of acres of vines. I am a fan of that grape so it was sad for me. Fiano from Australia can be pretty impressive, thinking of Unico Velo.
he is saying, he didnt emulate Bordeaux and Burgundy and yet he says, we beat French to their own game. He and Australia did indeed emulate Bordeaux and other world regions. taking it further, one could argue, definition of “fine wine” is already rooted into emulating old world regions. no way around it. fascinating interview as always.
Question for Brendan: I get why Shiraz from the Riverland and Barossa is still getting heavily oaked - it makes sense for large-scale, mass-produced wines where consistency is key year after year. But why, WHY do so many of the smaller producers in the Adelaide Hills insist on doing this to their Chardonnay?
Because oak is seductive. It hides discretions - but also references higher-priced wines globally - allowing the winery to effectively market to a different crowd. Definitely some missed opportunities out there.
@@wineforthepeople cheers Brendan. Agree with the missed opportunities. Some producers using old or no oak in the Hills are producing some bangers. The Hills need their own John Hughes but focusing on Chardonnay
Far out Brendan, what an amazing conversation and so important, this will be a classic in future decades. You navigated well, BC has never been the easiest interviewee, but you have the industry chops to engage and relate to him. Complimente!
Aw shucks! Thank you so much! It was definitely nerve-wracking!
Fantastic chat. Enjoy your channel's more casual videos but the serious side is something special.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much! We've got plenty more coming!
Playing catchup on this video, and glad I did 👌 super interesting chat.
Loving this content as always - George
Thanks George!
I was introduced to Petaluma brand by American importer Robert Chadderdon Selections NYC in 1985. What an eye opening wine experience Brian Croser brought from Australia. I had friends who claimed the bottles were dull compared to other Oz flashy buttery balls Chardonnay. I shared the distinction is the difference. So glad to see his mantra’s Quality is judged in the vineyard!
He's definitely an inspiration, and not to be forgotten, that's for sure!
Thanks Brendan, an excellent interview. As a "senior" wine consumer, since the late '70's, it is interesting how one's own wine choices, and the industry dynamics interplay It would seem from Brian's perspective, become a viticulturist, not a winemaker. A very complex industry and invaluable opportunity to have a long form interview with one of Australia's wine greats. Interesting how Brian suggested that partners should offer more than just money, and wonderful that his choices helped mentor him in global wine marketing and distribution.
My absolute pleasure! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch!
I recall when Petit Verdot from the Riverlands was the next big thing...and then vanished. I think it was the drought that killed hundreds and hundreds, probably thousands of acres of vines. I am a fan of that grape so it was sad for me. Fiano from Australia can be pretty impressive, thinking of Unico Velo.
We recall that too! But it was largely driven by one single producer (Kingston)!
Unico Zelo, but I think everyone knew that.
True true!
he is saying, he didnt emulate Bordeaux and Burgundy and yet he says, we beat French to their own game. He and Australia did indeed emulate Bordeaux and other world regions. taking it further, one could argue, definition of “fine wine” is already rooted into emulating old world regions. no way around it. fascinating interview as always.
Haha yes! That is certainly a contradiction - but perhaps nuance and context?
Question for Brendan: I get why Shiraz from the Riverland and Barossa is still getting heavily oaked - it makes sense for large-scale, mass-produced wines where consistency is key year after year. But why, WHY do so many of the smaller producers in the Adelaide Hills insist on doing this to their Chardonnay?
Because oak is seductive. It hides discretions - but also references higher-priced wines globally - allowing the winery to effectively market to a different crowd. Definitely some missed opportunities out there.
@@wineforthepeople cheers Brendan. Agree with the missed opportunities. Some producers using old or no oak in the Hills are producing some bangers. The Hills need their own John Hughes but focusing on Chardonnay
Haha! His name is Michael Downer - and it's Murdoch Hill!