Many people speak of sustainability as a modern trend across industries today. For Sergio Carlei and Chris Mendonez, the commitment to organic and biodynamic farming at Carlei Green Vineyards is not a marketing strategy, but a life-affirming belief system forged from personal adversity. Chris Mendonez, Co-Founder, Director and Mortgage Broker of Professional Path Advisors, shares Sergio’s vision for sustainable winemaking.
The story of Carlei Wines changed forever in 1996. Sergio, then a chemist, was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and given a staggering two-year life expectancy.
In response, he chose a different path, embracing raw and organically certified foods. Two years later, his cancer went into remission through what he describes as “a detoxification process coupled with an understanding that food is medicine.” This life-altering experience reshaped not only his health but also his approach to farming and winemaking.
“With responsible winemaking, we go beyond just making high-quality organic wines. Essentially, one needs to consider the consumer’s health,” he said.
Today, under the watchful eyes of Sergio and Chris, the vineyard operates as a living ecosystem. No synthetic chemicals are used, and soil health is prioritised.
This ensures that consumers “experience high quality food and wine free of toxics which supports good health and wellbeing,” resulting in wines that truly reflect their terroir.
The partnership between Sergio and Chris is built on a shared history. Brought together years ago by a close mutual friend, the two have blended Sergio’s craftsmanship – including being the first and only winemaker behind four of the Top 10 Best New Wineries in the 2007 Wine Companion, every winery he has consulted for since has achieved the highest 5 Red Star rating — with Chris’s strategic vision.
Chris is now steering Carlei’s most ambitious chapter yet: international expansion. After twelve months of preparation, Carlei Wines is set to officially enter the Philippine market, an exciting milestone as they continue “sharing our sustainably grown wines with the world.”
Back home in Upper Beaconsfield, that same spirit of connection is felt at the reopened Carlei Estate Winery Pizzeria. Guests on the Terrazza can enjoy wood-fired rustic pizzas curated by Chris Carlei.
While a sparkling wine offers a celebratory start, the Sangiovese—with its bright acidity and vibrant cherry fruit—is the recommended pairing for a classic Margherita. The atmosphere is “relaxed yet refined—welcoming, communal, and connected to the land.”
The hospitality story continues at The Pine Grove Hotel, a historic country pub dating back to the 1880s. Having risen from the ashes multiple times, including after the Ash Wednesday fires of 1983, the hotel stands as a symbol of resilience.
It is a fitting companion to the winery, mirroring the journey of its founders.
At Carlei Estate, wine is not merely produced; it is cultivated with the understanding that “healthy soil leads to healthy vines, which produce expressive wines”. It is a legacy shared in the spirit of health, resilience and community.
Visit them online: www.carleiestate.com.au.