THE Gehrig family wine history started around 1860 in Barnawartha, Rutherglen.

Fourth generation winemaker John started his own brand in 1976 in the King Valley, utilising the cooler region for premium Riesling, Chenin Blanc and lighter reds like Gamay and Pinot Noir.

In 2011, John's son Ross and Ross's wife Meghan purchased more vineyards; the 80ha Gooramadda vineyard east of Rutherglen, where they continue the family's history of producing big flavoursome reds and luscious fortified wines.

Ross continues the family legacy by not only producing the styles and wines his father once did, but also his own range of high–end, big and flavourful wines under the 'RG' label.

Only produced when the fruit is perfect and the time is right, this collection is worth waiting for and Ross has an obsession with producing the best grapes to produce wines of distinction that pay homage to this iconic North East Victorian winery.

The future looks bright for the Gehrig winemaking family with generation six's Grace Gehrig (13) having a keen passion for the industry.

Grace wins the award for precocious talent for her light aromatic red called Grace's Gamay, which she concocted (with some parental advice) at the tender age of eight.

Sold under the John Gehrig Wines label, Grace's tipple contains 'youthful enthusiasm' according to her mother, Meghan.

John Gehrig Wines can be found in two great destinations – Rutherglen and in the Milawa Gourmet Region in the King Valley where you can taste aromatic whites, fruity light reds and the Rutherglen favourites of Cabernet, Durif, Shiraz and fortified wines.

Also on the list are the RG wines, produced in the best years, which are full flavoured wines of distinction.

So plan a trip to the cellar door this summer – you may even consider booking a 'little river picnic' experience at the King Valley site.

For information call (03) 5727 3395, or visit www.johngehrigwines.com.au or find them on Facebook and Instagram.