Fields of Wines
Luxury estate, tranquil hideaway, creative retreat: Winmark Wines is truly a place to connect.
Pooles Rock winery has a rich and tumultuous history. Yet the famous rock exudes an air of serenity, as if to reassure the visitor that everything will be fine. And these days, things are fine indeed. The property had famously been a part of David Clarke’s Hunter wine empire. After the co-founder and former chairman of Macquarie Bank passed away in 2011, the estate (but not the name) was acquired by mining giant AGL with plans for exploration of coal seam gas. Mining never got underway but the estate did fall into serious neglect.
Enter current owners Karin Adcock and John Winstanley. For Karin and John, it was love at first sight; they immediately recognised the property’s potential. With the original name not available, they chose a new one: Winmark Wines, combining John’s surname, Winstanley, with Karin’s maiden name, Enemark. Fittingly, ‘Winmark’ in Karin’s native Danish means ‘fields of wines’. Their respective backgrounds were another perfect fit: Karin launched PANDORA Jewelry in Australia and brought her lifelong passion for interiors to the project. She created opulent spaces, full of treasures and artworks from around the world. John has a long history in wine and is currently working with experienced viticulturists and wine makers. They are focusing exclusively on Chardonnay, with plans to release their first premium vintage in 2020 – just in time for the new cellar door to open.
We are starting our tour of the property at Mio Monte, one of three luxury accommodation options on the estate. Overlooking the vine filled valley with Mt Broke in the background, it is the perfect combination of luxury escape (tennis court, stone fireplace, library, sitting room and two barbecue areas anyone?) and art gallery. There are currently 26 stunning pieces by artist Rebecca Pierce on display.
As we are making our way from Mio Monte to the Private Residence and later to Rock Cottage, we realise how truly special a place this is. The stunning views, the tranquillity and natural beauty of the property connect perfectly with eye catching pieces of art like Biosis, a monumental work by renowned sculptor David Ball, just as the carefully considered indoor spaces connect seamlessly with the various al fresco areas.
Creating a place to connect is at the core of Karin and John’s vision for Winmark Wines: “This is perfect for corporate executives seeking an inspiring team building destination, as a weddding venue or a creative sanctuary for Australia’s hippest artists,” says Karin. Guests will be spoilt for choice with three luxury accommodation options for up to 32 guests, a feature pool and a stunning garden by leading landscape designer Paul Bangay OAM. https://www.winmarkwines.com.au/
