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The location of Trentham Estate today was once part of a large sheep station called “Trentham Cliffs”. It was settled in the 1930’s by the Chanter Family. After the war in 1948-49 the riverfront areas were developed into horticulture properties.
The Murphy Family migrated to Australia from Ireland in 1909 and were one of the first settlers to establish vineyards at Merbein, 15 kilometres west of Mildura. The family moved to Trentham Cliffs in 1960 and re–developed one of the properties.
Jack and Moya Murphy established their farm, which included plantings such as citrus, vegetables and grapes for fortified wines, and then later re-planted to specialize in varietal grapes.
The vines flourished in the rich red loam over limestone soils, nurtured by water from the Murray River. The first vintage was produced in 1984, using only 6 tonnes of grapes.
Jack Murphy instilled his knowledge of viticulture to his sons Anthony and Patrick, who established Trentham Estate in 1988.
Today the Estate is a well recognised establishment, growing and producing highly commended wines. As well as the Family members involved in the business, namely Anthony and Nola Murphy and Patrick Murphy, the Estate employs a further fifteen dedicated and skilled full time staff for the vineyard, winemaking, marketing, restaurant and administration.
The Murphy Vineyards now comprises of 60 ha under vine of various age, with the oldest being planted in 1952, and the winemaking facility has expanded from its first crush, to some 2,000 tonnes of premium varietal fruit.
The Estate has continued to produce more vintages of high quality; proving Trentham Estate’s label, an award winner. Future directions will see Trentham Estate move into the future with a strong position in the Domestic
and International wine market.
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