Our vineyard in Severnlea, originally known as Emerald Hill, was established in 1998 by Spanish couple Tom and Cath Jimenez. With a pioneering vision to experiment with alternative grape varieties, their approach at the time, was bold and iconoclastic for the Granite Belt region. Their innovative spirit continues today at ridgemill estate, where we uphold their legacy by pushing boundaries in winemaking, crafting exceptional wines that reflect our unique terroir.
Fast forward to 2004, leading Brisbane project manager, Martin Cooper, was contracted to manage the development of the Queensland College of Wine Tourism. While building the college, he’d developed a love for the landscape, the lifestyle and the wines of the Granite Belt. During his opportunities to explore he stumbled across Emerald Hill. Martin was drawn to its natural beauty and the great promise of its wines. Seven days later the Cooper family purchased the property.
The vineyard’s new name – ridgemill estate – came about when Martin and friend, the late international designer David Winter, enjoyed a few too many G&Ts during a trip to Singapore.
Peter McGlashan joined the ridgemill team in September 2004 as head wine-maker. Under his guidance ridgemill estate continues to explore, challenge and refine the art of creating wines that best suit the region’s terroir; that resonate with its character and that delight and surprise the palates of wine lovers.
The estate’s mantra is to produce wines of timeless elegance and finesse. It’s a task that demands tireless dedication, an unflinching commitment to quality and a passion to discover new varieties and perfect each variety they grow. To that end the vineyard was expanded in 2013 when the neighbouring property was acquired.
Martin and his wife Michelle Feenan, share an enthusiasm for creating one of the Granite Belt’s leading wineries and an inviting retreat offering cosy, stylish accommodation. It’s the ideal hideaway to experience the Granite Belt wine region.
Our cellar door is open daily for tastings and wine sales, see below for opening times, which may vary on public holidays, so please call ahead 07 4683 5211.
ridgemill estate is located approximately 5 minutes’ drive south of Stanthorpe in Queensland’s Granite Belt Region. Our address is ridgemill estate, 218 Donges Road, Severnlea Qld, 4380 for directions visit our Find Us page.
