By James Atkinson
Former Kirrihill winemaker Donna Stephens has left the Clare Valley for her hometown of Mildura, where she's taken on the role of head winemaker for Cappa Stone Wines.
Since joining Cappa Stone, Stephens has overseen the construction of a new winery complete with old basket presses and open fermenters, as well as completing vintage 2013.
"Donna's experience in selecting the best parcels of super-premium fruit from the appropriate growing regions is well known and it is this approach that underpins the Cappa Stone range," the winery said.
The Cappa Stone range includes Moscato made from white frontignac in Mildura; Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay; Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon and Clare Valley Shiraz (pictured).
Just as she did at Kirrihill, Stephens is experimenting with alternative varietals at Cappa Stone such as Nebbiolo, Vermentino, Sangiovese and Nero D'Avola.