Lake's Folly

Established in 1963 by Doctor Max Lake, Lake's Folly was the first new vineyard in the Hunter Valley last century. In early 2000, Lake's Folly was purchased by Peter and Lee Fogarty and family who, along with Hunter-born and bred winemaker, Rodney Kempe, have continued to maintain the integrity and direction of this significant vineyard. Our two flagship wines, a Cabernet blend and a Chardonnay, are made in limited quantities and are grown, vi...

Australia's Oldest Wine Region

The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region, with the first grape vines planted in the early 1820s. Today, it is Australia’s most visited wine region playing host to just over 1.5 million visitors each year. The Hunter Valley is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and about 45 kilometres inland from the coastal city of Newcastle. The Hunter Valley is based on the catchment of the Hunter River...

In the vineyard, quality is derived primarily from the terroir. The vines produce low cropping high quality fruit, and are well established, giving consistency even in difficult years. The winemaking aspect is very simple. Hand picking, gentle crushing and traditional open fermentation for the reds, barrel fermentation and extended yeast lees contact for the Chardonnay. Discerning use of French oak, small barrel maturation for both wines befor...