There’s something undeniably captivating about wines grown in volcanic soils. Across the world, regions like Etna in Sicily and Santorini in Greece are celebrated for producing wines of remarkable depth, energy, and tension, shaped by the ancient power of fire and earth.

Here in the Yarra Valley, our Kangaroo Ground vineyard shares that same story of origin. Sitting on the valley’s western edge, this warmer site is home to rich black volcanic basalt soils, forged long ago by eruptions that once defined the landscape. These soils, combined with north-east facing slopes that capture the morning sun, create the perfect environment for growing wines of exceptional structure, intensity, and character.

Volcanic soils are known for their minerality and their ability to produce wines with natural vitality. They tend to be free-draining yet nutrient-rich, forcing vines to dig deep for sustenance, resulting in smaller berries with concentrated flavour. At Kangaroo Ground, this translates beautifully into our Black Cameron Shiraz, Braveheart Cabernet Sauvignon, and Kincardine Grenache.

Each of these wines carries a signature of place: bold fruit, lifted aromatics, and an underlying mineral edge that speaks to their volcanic origin. The Shiraz shows dark plum and spice with a silky texture; the Cabernet Sauvignon balances richness with elegant tannins; and the Grenache offers vibrant red fruit and a savoury finish, all unified by the depth and warmth that only basalt soils can bring.

Kangaroo Ground’s volcanic heritage gives our wines a story that stretches back millions of years, a reminder that great wine begins long before the first vine was planted. It begins in the earth itself.