It is well known that ‘great wine is made in the vineyard’, and the Soumah team set out to select an exact location for winemaking that delivers every advantage of a cool climate, undulating topography, and ancient soils. The team found its sought-out hidden gem located down a country lane, in the dress circle of the Warramate foothills of Gruyere. This pristine area, nestled amongst the hills – ‘South of Maroondah Highway’, now Soumah – is home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in all of Australia. It is from here that Soumah nurtures many northern Italian varietals as well as classic chardonnay, pinot noir and syrah.

From a winemaking perspective, the terroir is similar to northern Italy with short, dry, hot summers and cool nights throughout. Even the fog that descends upon the Valley in late summer is reminiscent of those lands. The team continually search for native northern Italian vines to plant as well as select great examples of classic wines to import.

Upon arrival, the captivating vineyard views and Warramate Hills beyond will immediately win visitors over. To fully immerse yourself in the Soumah experience, the knowledgeable cellar door team conduct tutored wine tastings, covering the history and winemaking process. Tastings can also be personalised to suit your preference.

In 2020, London-based Decanter World Wine Awards judges tasted 16,518 wines from fiftysix countries, with the net result being a ‘Best in Show’ award for the winery’s 2018 Equilibrio Chardonnay. If you opt for a Premium Wine Experience, this award-winning wine is one of the reserve quality, limited production, and museum release wines in that tasting flight.

The winery’s restaurant, Trattoria d’Soumah, offers woodfired pizzas and fresh, seasonable pasta dishes, plus a house-made dessert menu replete with wine-infused sorbets. For something different, try Merenda, a new and unique experience involving a traditional Italian afternoon tea with a glass of bubbly accompanied by a selection of treats.

If you would like to extend your visit, Ville d’Soumah is the perfect place to stay; a spacious, modern country-style home situated on the property, just steps away from the cellar door and restaurant. Awarded Yarra Valley Winery of the Year for 2017 and 2019, Soumah of Yarra Valley is a bucket-list destination.