Small Forest

Small Forest was founded the end of 2013 in Upper Hunter by Japanese winemaker Atsuko Radcliffe. Her winemaking in 1987 began in Japan. After gaining experience in France in 1990, she worked various vintages across Australia from 1995, in Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, before choosing to settle and work in Upper Hunter in 1999. Atsuko has worked for both small and large wineries, and now produces wine at a very small boutique winery.

Her approach to winemaking emphasises discovering and highlighting each fruit's character, building layers, complexity, and, above all, ensuring the wine is enjoyable to drink. All her wines are exceptionally clean and pair beautifully with a wide variety of foods. Addition to her work, she has worked at the one of Japan's most highly respected sake breweries in 2009. She was making sake as an integral member of the team for 18 months. Her approach to winemaking evolved significantly during this period, gaining a deeper understanding of regional characteristics and a personal connection as a resident of the Upper Hunter. The result is an authentic, truly regional wine.

The cellar door is also Art Gallery exhibiting local artist changing every three to four months. Workshops are another interesting activities to join. You can taste wines, as well as special sake tasting selected by Atsuko.