In 1999, Tim’s dad, Ian, inspired and encouraged by legendary former Mount Langi Ghiran winemaker, Trevor Mast, planted a small vineyard at Cave Hill Creek. Fondly named The Patch after the “patched‑on” residence he and Julie lived in at Cave Hill Creek, the vineyard was predominantly Pinot Noir with a small planting of Shiraz.
For Ian, it was a hobby he genuinely loved — a chance to explore the alchemy of soil, climate, and hard work coming together to create something as expressive and rewarding as wine. He spent countless hours tending the vines and learning as he went.
When Tim and Ange took over Cave Hill Creek in 2009, they joined the vineyard project with Ian. Over time, winemaking became something they enjoyed doing together — learning about grape growing, experimenting with small‑batch winemaking, and sharing the results with friends, family, and guests. One of their favourite traditions became placing a bottle of Patch Pinot Noir in the glamping tent bridal suite for wedding couples and inviting interested friends and guests to help with harvest each year.
During COVID, when connecting with people felt difficult, The Patch played a small but meaningful role. Surprising members of the Cave Hill Creek community with a bottle on their doorstep became a simple way to check in and brighten spirits.
Fire, Loss and Recovery
In 2024, the Bayindeen Rocky Road bushfires swept through the area and caused significant damage to the vineyard. Nets, trellising, and irrigation were destroyed, and many vines appeared beyond saving. It was an emotional blow, made even harder when Ian passed away not long after. So much of the vineyard’s identity was tied to him.
Despite the destruction, vines have a remarkable ability to regenerate. Over the months that followed, around two‑thirds of the vineyard resprouted, showing clear signs of life. That sparked the decision to try and bring The Patch back.
Rebuilding The Patch
In January, a group of friends came together for a working bee to help reinstate trellising posts, wires, and irrigation. Since then, many evenings have been spent walking the rows, supporting regrowth and restoring order to the vineyard.
The progress has been encouraging. A portion of the vines are now carrying healthy bunches, and last weekend new nets went on — an uplifting milestone.
With 22 February marking two years since the bushfires, it feels especially meaningful to have the vineyard operational again. The timing is a powerful reminder of how far things have come.
Looking ahead to the 2026 vintage
While there’s still a way to go, and the vines are still recovering, things are looking positive for a 2026 vintage. The Patch has always been about more than wine; it reflects the importance of family and friends, persistence, and a passion for learning.
Our wine offers a way to share the uniqueness of Cave Hill Creek — a taste of this place we love — with our community. Despite the setback of the fires, the heart of the vineyard remains the same, and carrying it forward feels like an important way of honouring Ian’s contribution to Cave Hill Creek.
