CELLAR DOOR PREVIEW- THE CUPS ESTATE
By Vanessa Massarotti

Below are some pictures and an article that featured in the newly released What’s On- Victoria Magazine. It describes how Vanessa Massarotti (Director of What’sOn- Victoria) enjoyed the day. To those we could not invite to the opening please accept our apologies, unfortunately there was limited room.

The official opening of The Cups Estate cellar door was marked in my diary
“an event not to miss”

Traveling down the Mornington Freeway towards Fingal (Rye) for the grand opening of the cellar door, I pondered “The Cups Estate?” – what an unusual name for a vineyard. As I drove along Browns Road, it started to come together. The entrance to the vineyard was just ahead, winding between lush vineyard one side and on the other were golden sand dunes, plus the best view in town – the 13th hole at the neighbouring Moonah Links Golf Course! Owners Joe and Carmen Fisicaro purchased The Cups Estate property in 1995 with a vision to producing fine boutique style wines, that they would not only enjoy themselves, but share with all wine lovers. Along with their supportive family they worked collectively to cultivate the property into a fully functioning winery. With 15 acres now under vine they are now producing vintages that are winning medals at wine shows across the country.

Sitting on top of the hill was The Cups Estate cellar door. I was impressed with the unique circular design of the cellar door’s main building and striking black granite bar in the centre of the room. It was full of light filtering in from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, giving uninterrupted and spectacular views across the vineyard, rolling sand dunes and the infamous 13th hole beyond.

The room was abuzz with excitement and congratulations extending from neighbours, local business and extended family members. The afternoon got under way by sampling the full range of cool climate wines on offer, which really excited the taste buds as well as debating which were most popular. I enjoyed comparing my tasting notes with fresh new faces while feasting on the tempting and never-ending canapés – catered for by Max’s Restaurant of Red Hill Estate.

The momentum of the day continued with spine tingling renditions of Opera and Arias, performed by the Opera Australia’s soprano Carmela De Losinno, tenor Lawrence Allan and pianist Joe Ruberto. And of course the unforgettable special guest appearance from tenor Dominic Massarotti, left the crowd in awe and first-timers fully converted to classical music.

Although the number 13 is unlucky for some, it wasn’t for me on that warm summers day. I was right where I wanted to be, enjoying good company, great wine and superb song. If the smiles, laughter and empty glasses could measure the success of the day it would be awarded a gold medal!

at a glance…

The Cups Estate with its newly opened cellar door should be put on ‘your must visit winery list’ for 2006, where you are sure to be welcomed by Joe or his son Lee Fisicaro who manages the cellar door.

Current wine list @ cellar door prices per bottle:

2005 White Pinot $15.00 
2005 Pinot Rose $17.00 
2003 Pinot Noir $23.00 
2003 "Raimondo Reserve" Pinot Noir $28.00 
2003 Merlot $20.00 
2003 Shiraz: $25.00

Location: 269 Browns Rd, Fingal
Phone: 1300 131 741
Open: 7 Days a week from 10am to 5pm (Bookings required for larger groups)