Selection of site was essential to the success of the Hugo property. The climate, soils and proximity of McLaren Flat to the coast are contributing factors in maintaining the quality each and every year. Colin Hugo established Shiraz vines on the family farm during the 1950s, John Hugo followed in his father's footsteps, assuming responsibility as steward of the vineyard throughout the 1970s, ultimately taking the initiative to retain the best grapes for his own estate label. The finest parcels of Hugo Shiraz are treated to an extended term of maturation in a selection of finely coopered American oak barrels.