SPECIALLY selected South Australian grapes have gone into a new wine range from a world-renowned chef.
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Australian food wizard and French-trained chef Joshua Mason has launched his own label, Ciel Wines, including a premium collector's range, Cloud Series and the Ciel Wine Club.
Mr Mason said winemaking was a natural extension from being a chef.
"It's become an absolute obsession of mine from sourcing the grapes - largely from the Barossa - to creating the perfect bouquet and blend for the palate - of course matched with my creations in the kitchen," he said.
"Ciel Wines is the culmination of my culinary journey.
"In French, Ciel translates to 'sky' in English. Creating these new signatures is an endeavour aimed at pushing myself and seeing what I can create. It's highly rewarding."
Mr Mason has established a reputation for going to great lengths to explore the nuances of winemaking and ingredients pairing.
He started out in kitchens of San Francisco where he honed his skills under the guidance of some of the world's finest Michelin-starred restaurants, including Atelier Crenn and Coi.
Drawing inspiration from his experiences abroad, he returned to Australia in 2016 with a vision to bring elevated French cuisine to Sydney's fine food scene.
In 2017, he unveiled Quoi Dining, a fine-dining French-meets-modern Australian restaurant, promptly receiving a hat by the prestigious Australian Good Food Guide.
After five years at the helm of Quoi Dining, Mr Mason decided to venture into winemaking.
He crafted a label emphasising quality, flavour and his love for South Australia's Barossa.
"I've always believed that a great meal is incomplete without a great wine to accompany it," Mr Mason said.
"With Ciel, I wanted to create wines that not only enhance my culinary creations but also stand independently on their own as expressions of craftsmanship and passion."
Each varietal is sourced from premium vineyards, handpicked to ensure the quality and distinct flavour profile.
"It's been years of hard work, and now I am witnessing the tangible fruits of my dedication, boasting the largest wine list in Sydney's Hills District. Ciel Wines, are made at my own winery in South Australia's Barossa region," he said.
Mr Mason has now signed agreements with several leading restaurant groups such as Sydney Restaurant Group to have several of his ultra-premium vintages available in its restaurants.
Another includes Etymon Projects, the team behind hospitality venues, Poetica, The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar, and Loulou Bistro, Boulangerie and Traiteur.
The group is also partnering with The Langham, Sydney to open a new restaurant and lounge bar inside the luxury hotel and all venues are set to offer Ciel Wines.
