Gary Mills, proprietor and winemaker of Jamsheed wines based in the Yarra Valley region of Australia. Jamsheed is a micro-winery fashioning syrahs and aromatic whites from single vineyard, old vine - unique sites within Victoria.
Ancient writings tell an endearing tale of Jamsheed, a Persian king who was said to be able to see his kingdom in a cup of wine, and whose fondness for fresh grapes lead him to store them in jars over winter where they would inevitably spontaneously ferment and be set aside as 'poison'. One of King Jamsheed's harem, despairing of frequent migraines, chooses to commit suicide by drinking from a poisoned jar. She wakes to find herself miraculously cured, informs her king, who is most pleased and sets about making many jars of 'poison' and thus wine was discovered.
What was the turning point that made working with wine the right choice for you?
I had an epiphany whilst working with Paul Draper at Ridge Vineyards in California USA. He showed me how to respect single vineyards and old vines and how quality and sustainability are paramount.
Worst Job in the winery?
Emptying the sump pit without doubt
Most untrusted grape variety? Why?
Merlot - it is evil and should be punished
Wine you wish you had more of in your cellar?
Clape Cornas or Chave Hermitage (white and red)
Wine you've always wanted to try but still haven't?
Older vintages of DRC
If you could make an experimental wine, what grape would you use and what stye of wine would it be?
I'm interested in Sagrantino after a inspiring Italian trip and think that with global warming it should be a perfect variety for the Yarra in about 5 years
If you weren't a winemaker what would you be?
I'd like to think professional baseball player but I think I've missed my shot
Wine region you'd most like to visit?
Rhone valley
What was the last wine you had a bottle of?
Probably my own but last one that wasn't was a lovely 07 Chantermerle Chablis
Worst mistake you've made at work?
I once turned a press load of Mornington Peninsula Pinot Gris with the door open -
though in some circles that would be considered doing the industry a favour.
© Benand