Established in 1983 by Ian and June Marks, Gembrook Hill is one of the oldest and most revered vineyards in the Upper Yarra Valley. Nestled in a natural amphitheatre with a coveted northeast aspect, the estate sits at one of the region’s coolest and most elevated sites—ideal for crafting wines of restraint, elegance, and longevity.

The vineyard spans five hectares of unirrigated, low-yielding vines planted to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Blanc de Blancs. These varieties thrive in the red volcanic soils and long, slow-ripening conditions of the site, producing fruit with natural acidity and fine structure. Gembrook Hill’s wines are known for their old-world sensibility—more Sancerre than Marlborough, more Burgundy than blockbuster.

Winemaking is led by Andrew Marks, son of the founders, who continues the estate’s minimalist approach: wild ferments, gentle handling, and maturation in seasoned French oak. The result is a portfolio of wines that are subtle, savoury, and deeply expressive of place. The Pinot Noir is perfumed and poised, the Chardonnay taut and mineral, and the Sauvignon Blanc—often compared to Loire Valley styles—is a benchmark for the variety in Australia. The vintage Blanc de Blancs, a more recent addition, has been hailed as one of the country’s finest sparkling wines.

The cellar door is open by appointment only, offering a quiet, contemplative tasting experience with views of Mt Donna Buang and the Warburton Ranges. Visitors are often hosted by the Marks family themselves, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Gembrook Hill exports to the UK, US, Denmark, Japan, and Malaysia, and remains a favourite among sommeliers and collectors who value nuance over noise. With over 40 vintages behind them, the Marks family continues to prove that less is more—and that great wine begins in the vineyard.