Mac Forbes
Mac Forbes

Mac Forbes is an inspiration. Having first donned the overalls in France at 19 years of age, he then did the Roseworthy winemaking thing, spent some time gathering ‘cultural' experience at iconic Yarra Valley winery Mount Mary and now he's making booze up in the Yarra with convincing retro-modern attitude. He's been consulting and making some wine for himself in Austria and has lead the charge to carve his beloved Yarra Valley up into defined sub-district areas. He's destined to do interesting stuff - if only there were more like Mac. This year we celebrate the return of the Mac!
Q&A

 

Is there a wine or a person that inspires you as a winemaker?
John Middleton had a massive influence on me even before I knew Mount Mary. His singleminded approach that bucked trends and resulted in worldclass restrained wines has most definitely inspired. Producing wines that challenge expectation, that resonate of their origin and leave a gift for the next generation is now what I aspire.

What is so-hot-right-now in wine?
Small independent emerging producers.... What a great time to be drinking Aussie wine.

What got you into wine?
It was an accident really... I got seduced by the romance.

What's your desert island wine?
Riesling... boring but true.

Why should you win the people's vote for the YGWA?
Because I promise not to come back next year!

(Complete this sentence) If there was no wine in the world...
I wonder what Robert Parker would be doing.

As a winemaker, where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Competing in my final young gun award at the ripe old age of 45!

What's the one word that sums you up?
Complex

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