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One of Coonawarra’s most high-profile winemakers, Patrick Tocaciu, is poised to launch a new corporate identity in a bold move designed to link personality with regionality and will now be trading as Patrick of Coonawarra. The new look, which will be officially unveiled on Tuesday 27th July 2010, reflects a strong sense of pride in a world-renown region and serves as a turning point in a decorated career spanning more than three decades.
“I’ve had the pleasure of celebrating international accolades while working as chief winemaker for several major labels, but it’s a winemaker’s dream to complete the story – to grow, make and sell your own produce. It’s taken me a number of years to get to that point, but we’re now at a stage where that dream is a reality,” Patrick says.
The newly-released premium Patrick of Coonawarra label features 100 per cent Coonawarra wine produced from family-owned and managed vineyards, and includes the flagship Patrick of Coonawarra 2002 “Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon, which has been widely praised for its impeccable structure and remarkable depth. The company will also continue to produce its incredibly popular Estate and Mother of Pearl ranges which not only offer exceptional quality and value for money, but emphasise Patrick’s commitment to regionality by showcasing magnificent quality fruit carefully selected from across the Limestone Coast.
Adding to the “new look”, Patrick’s eldest son Luke is now working alongside him after graduating from the University of Adelaide with a degree in Oenology. Part of the emerging generation of ‘young gun’ winemakers, Luke is carrying on the tradition of a family business while demonstrating an ability to adapt to new age trends and consumer demand. In addition to learning the science behind the art, Luke has built on his university experiences by completing vintages in the Clare Valley, the Barossa, Coonawarra and the USA’s Sonoma Valley.
“Working alongside my father now gives me greater depth in winemaking, allowing me to bring my own ideas to the table while learning from his wealth of knowledge and experience,” he explains.
And there’s still plenty of room for self-expression in this new partnership – the new and unique Pinot Noir from the cool climate of Mt Gambier has been Luke’s first “pet project”.
“I’m really interested in unique styles, regions and varieties - thinking outside the square with regard to winemaking in order to target consumers and the younger generations that are looking for something a bit different,” he says. “Experimentation is a key process in this.”
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