Diamond Creek Estate, Mittagong, NSW
A little slice of the Mediterranean at home.
Helen Hale had long dreamed of moving to Tuscany. But when she saw Diamond Creek Estate, with its views across rolling hills and its terroir perfect for producing wine grapes and olives, she knew she had found her 40ha of heaven in the Southern Highlands of NSW.
In 2002, a thorough search of rural properties surrounding Sydney led Hale to Mittagong, where the fertile landscape reminded her of Italy and holidays on a family dairy farm in Jilliby, near Wyong on the NSW Central Coast. “I love the land and the vines… I have my own piece of the Mediterranean right here,” she says. “People who share a love of the country understand this strong connection. I have always been passionate about wine and the terroir.”
Hale says the property, about an hour’s drive from Sydney Airport, ticked all the boxes, including an elevation of 700m on prime basalt soil, and a northern aspect.
Twelve years ago, the elegant bluestone homestead was built and 6ha of cool-climate grapes were planted, producing chardonnay, riesling, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon. The vineyard now yields about 30 tonnes of grapes each year, and the 4ha olive grove produces barnea, manzanillo and mission varieties, used to make high-quality olive oil. A manager helps Hale with the harvesting process and maintenance of the estate, which includes three dams, a bore and machinery shed.
The main residence, laid out around a central courtyard, is framed by traditional gardens including manicured hedges and white roses. The light-filled interior, a mix of casual and formal rooms, includes five bedrooms, four bathrooms, an open-plan kitchen, dining room and glass conservatory overlooking the vineyards. Deep verandas run down three sides, providing shade in summer and space for quiet contemplation, and a separate two-bedroom bluestone cottage accommodates guests seeking extra privacy. In a separate pavilion, the indoor gas-heated pool and spa caters for “energetic friends”, says Hale.
Unsurprisingly, the combination of location and luxury holds great appeal to a roster of regular visitors. “All of my guests, whether from Sydney or from overseas, feel completely at home the moment they arrive,” she says. “It is so tranquil and private … most are inspired by the beautiful views and the Australian landscape.”
Amid all this serenity, does Hale have her own happy place? “The living room with its fireplace and access to the verandas is where I love to sit and read,” she says. “It’s especially stunning at the moment, with the wisteria in full bloom.”
Diamond Fields Road, Mittagong $6.5m
Agent: Chantal Hooper, Pillinger Real Estate, 0404 340 585
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