A story of place
and family
Vines and a vision
Established in 1980, Chrismont is the continuation of a family story shaped by resilience, intuition, and a deep connection to the land.
It began with Arnoldo Pizzini, who migrated to Australia from the mountainous Trentino region of Northern Italy in 1953. Raised on a traditional family farm, he developed a strong work ethic and a lasting respect for food, land, and community.
In Victoria’s King Valley, Arnoldo built a successful farming enterprise. It was his son, Arnie, who recognised the land's potential for viticulture and, in 1980, planted the first Chrismont vines.
Beginning with Barbera, Riesling and Chardonnay, the vineyards expanded steadily, helping shape the region’s reputation for Italian grape varietals. Arnie’s vision extended to crafting wines under the Chrismont name with winemaker Warren Proft, a collaboration that continues today.
In 2015, Arnie and his wife, Jo, opened a landmark Cellar Door and Restaurant, bringing together wine, food, and hospitality overlooking the King Valley. This has since evolved to include beautifully appointed accommodation, establishing Chrismont as one of the region’s most sought-after destinations.
Winemaker
Warren Proft has shaped every Chrismont wine since his first vintage alongside Arnie Pizzini in 1999.
Raised in Tumut at the foot of the Snowy Mountains, he developed an early connection to cool-climate landscapes before studying Oenology at Charles Sturt University.
Driven by curiosity, Warren gained international experience working between Australia and Spain, shaping his appreciation for varietal expression, regional character, and the culture of wine.
It was this connection to place and community that drew him to the King Valley. Today, as custodian of all Chrismont wines, he works closely with Arnie in the vineyard to guide each stage from vine to bottle. His approach is intuitive and considered, with a focus on crafting wines that express the land, the season, and the people behind them.
Vineyards
High in the Upper King Valley, the vineyards are shaped by altitude, soil, and season. Warm summer days give way to cool nights, allowing fruit to ripen slowly—building depth, balance, and a distinct cool-climate character.
Set along the northern slopes of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range, long autumns extend the growing season, creating ideal conditions for Mediterranean varieties to fully express themselves.
The original vineyard at Whitfield, planted in 1980, marked the beginning. A second site at nearby Cheshunt followed in 1992, where ongoing plantings continue to explore new expressions and possibilities.
Today, this sense of place extends beyond the estate. Select grower partnerships enrich the story, including the renowned Jacko Block in Edi—a site known across the region for its Nebbiolo, offering depth, structure, and a true reflection of the land.
King Valley, victoria's high country
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Victoria’s High Country, the King Valley is a place of quiet beauty and untamed charm. Rolling vineyards stretch toward alpine ranges, where long golden days and crisp mountain air shape both landscape and lifestyle.
Nearby, Lake William Hovell, Paradise Falls and Powers Lookout offer moments of awe and escape, while gravel cycling tracks wind through the valley alongside fishing spots, bush walks, and farm gate producers waiting to be discovered.
It’s a region defined by its rhythm—slow, generous, and deeply connected to the land. Here, exceptional food and wine meet breathtaking scenery, inviting you to linger a little longer. Whether winding through valley roads or pausing to take in the view, the King Valley offers an escape that feels both refined and wonderfully unhurried.
