Story about: Mark Lloyd, Winemaker

Coriole is famous, and not just for the sublime Shiraz. Nor that this humble McLaren Vale winery is now regarded as the pioneer of Italian grape varieties in Australia.

Forget that Coriole is simply one of the prettiest wineries in the country. Ignore the commitment to fine food production. The eccentric and highly cultured Mark Lloyd. Here's a man who understands that there's more to life than good food and drink. Without an appreciation of the wider arts, our lives would indeed be less, and Mark has been championing the cause.

Who was to know that the barrel hall at Coriole just happened to be accoustically perfect? The Coriole Music Festival is now 10 years young and acclaimed internationally. Guests can visit on Australia Day and enjoy an annual production of Shakespeare in the Vines, and, while choosing a wine to go with their picnic from the Cellar Door, they may discover something else, the Coriole Poet's Series. Here's a unique ozzie blend of Cabernet and Barbera, the proceeds of which are donated to the label's featured poet.