Rudderless Wines are made by renowned and creative McLaren Vale winemaker Justin McNamee.

Justin began making wines in 1988, in the Yarra Valley. For eight years between 1995 and 2003, Justin handcrafted the fine wines of McLaren Vales' Tatachilla Wines, during which time he confirmed his reputation for developing stunning wines.

2003 saw Justin embark on a defining venture as the driving force of Samuel's Gorge, also in McLaren Vale, where his varietal focus is on Grenache, Shiraz and Tempranillo.

Justin's knowledge and experience combined with his organic approach and passion for the region has proven in crafting unique and special wines. Reviews of the 2004 Rudderless release confirm this magic combination.

The maritime climate and coastal topography mean hillside vineyards benefit from soil drainage and cooling ocean breezes following warm afternoons. For Justin, "these topographic influences tend to generate wines that have distinct and powerful aromatics with mature, grainy tannins."

Doug and Justin work together to manage the winemaking process, blend the complex flavours and formulate the Rudderless wines.

Top photo of Justin McNamee courtesy of Samuel's Gorge.