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Richard Duckitt, a sixth-generation farmer from the Darling District, found his calling in winemaking, after having been inspired by the family farm’s vineyards and his grandfather’s winemaking legacy. Curious by nature and enamoured with fermentation, Duckitt’s journey into winemaking began at a young age, experimenting with wine and brandy production in his teenage years.
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Duckitt shares stories about this time, “As a boy, I learned how to ferment and distil, and made my first wine as well as a brandy when I was around just 15.” Due to his love of nature, his career very nearly went in another direction. “It came down to either being a game ranger or a winemaker, and it’s obvious which one I chose…”
Overseas experiences in California and Bordeaux, alongside collaborations with industry heavyweights, significantly shaped his understanding and appreciation for wine and the industry as a whole.
Overseas experiences in California and Bordeaux, alongside collaborations with industry heavyweights, significantly shaped his understanding and appreciation for wine and the industry as a whole.
Duckitt’s pivotal moments include the realisation that less is more when it comes to winemaking, akin to the delicate balance of flavours in cuisine. Duckitt understands this intrinsically as cooking is another one of his great loves.
Known for his detail-oriented and observant approach, Duckitt sets his winemaking process apart by applying considered interactions early on, enjoying the intricate aspects of tasting, flavour blending, and experimentation. He truly pours himself into the winemaking process – pun intended. “I guess your personality is reflected in the wine you make.”
Fundamental principles guiding Duckitt’s winemaking include simplicity, gentleness, and preserving the natural fruit qualities of the grape provided by the terroir as well as a minimal intervention approach. He emphasises the importance of letting the “shoe fit” rather than forcing it.
Fundamental principles guiding Duckitt’s winemaking include simplicity, gentleness, and preserving the natural fruit qualities of the grape provided by the terroir as well as a minimal intervention approach. He emphasises the importance of letting the “shoe fit” rather than forcing it.
Duckitt balances tradition with innovation, embracing both aspects in his careful consideration of the craft. While valuing tradition and history, he incorporates modern techniques to enhance quality without overshadowing terroir or the romantic essence of winemaking.
Fascinated by challenges, Duckitt expresses a particular fondness for working with Pinotage, a grape varietal known for its quick fermentation and demanding nature. “It’s also not very forgiving,” shares Duckitt. The satisfaction derived from overcoming the challenges inherent in Pinotage makes it a rewarding grape to work with.
The most cherished wine from his time at Bellingham is the 2019 SMV, simply as it is a personal favourite.“I personally love this wine, and so does everyone who tastes it,” he states matter-of-factly.
Despite his achievements, Duckitt remains humble. “Everyone who knows me will know that I don’t make wine for the awards. I get my satisfaction from people enjoying the wine.”
The most cherished wine from his time at Bellingham is the 2019 SMV, simply as it is a personal favourite.“I personally love this wine, and so does everyone who tastes it,” he states matter-of-factly.
Despite his achievements, Duckitt remains humble. “Everyone who knows me will know that I don’t make wine for the awards. I get my satisfaction from people enjoying the wine.”
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