The Downer Family have farmed their property 'Erinka' since 1939 reaping the benefits of fertile soils of the Onkaparinga Valley in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. The farm has operated as a beef cattle property for the last 60 years. In 1998 Charlie and Julie Downer established Murdoch Hill. The 21 hectare vineyard is situated in undulating hills where cool climate predominates and produces magnificent fruit. Murdoch Hill is the highest point in the surrounding district standing 516 metres above sea level. Michael Downer, the youngest in the family and when the wine bug hit, he never looked back. After studying Oenology he went to work for a top Winery in the Adelaide Hills before embarking on a globe trotting adventure. Touring the great wine regions of the world with harvest experience in Barolo, Italy, he then returned to Australia with vintages in Great Western, Victoria and other local wineries before finally joining the family winery in 2012. He is now the winemaker, mum is as proud as ever and he does make some great wines! James Halliday Wine Companion Five Red Star Rated Winery.