Significant improvements and modernisation have taken place since 1948. The cellar now features a variety of stainless steel tanks ranging from 5,000 to 54,000 liters, allowing for the creation of both small, unique batches of wine and larger, uniform batches for volume brands. A barrel ageing cellar with approximately 450 barrels is the pride and focal point of the winery.

Winemaking is both a biological and scientific art form. Each year presents different challenges, and the winemakers strive to craft wines that reflect the nuances of vintage and cultivar without too much variation year to year. Blending is one of the key tools used to ensure consistent quality. A deep understanding of the vineyards and strong communication between the producer, viticulturist, and winemaker are crucial. There is only one chance to harvest grapes at the perfect moment to create the ideal wine.

In the cellar, grapes and wines are handled as naturally and purely as possible. The combination of good grapes, advanced equipment, and passionate, knowledgeable people are the essential elements in producing exceptional wine.

In 1996, the establishment of their private cellar marked a new era for the Darling region. Today, 20 shareholders produce grapes from approximately 1,300 hectares, focusing on wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir and stay true to the grape varietals.

The cool, temperate climate and diverse soil types contribute to the distinctiveness of their grapes, which are crafted into even more unique wines. With around 95% of the vineyards unirrigated (dry land) and a similar percentage being bush vines (un-trellised), the wines produced are as close to nature’s intention as possible, reflecting both the terroir and the identity Darling Cellars has cultivated over time.