Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, November 2023

Behn Payten and Troy Jones, the self-proclaimed only two (literate) graduates of Healesville High School in 1997, have maintained a lasting friendship that has defied the test of time. Their foray into winemaking began with a spontaneous idea while they were bartending together, serving pints of Coopers Green, trying to earn some extra summer pocket money.

This spur-of-the-moment idea has since transformed into one of the most distinctive and well-regarded wineries and cellar door precincts in the Yarra Valley. These two equally distinctive and charismatic individuals are the driving force behind this success story.

Payten & Jones describe their approach to winemaking as similar to that of their approach to underwear; “less is more” .They prioritise respecting the terroir where the grapes are grown and the grape varieties they work with, always striving to keep things simple. Even before minimal intervention winemaking gained widespread attention, Behn and Troy have always adopted the attitude and philosophy of ensuring that their practices are better for the next generation, and simply doing what’s right, in both winemaking and life in general.

While they are renowned for their iconic Yarra Valley wines, Behn and Troy's winemaking adventures extend beyond the Valley to the Spanish region of Priorat. There, they embrace the vintage tradition, craft exquisite Grenache (Garnacha), and immerse themselves in Spanish culture, cherishing late mornings and savoring vermouth.

This month, we are delighted to feature the 2023 VV Pinot Noir and the 2022 VV Chardonnay from Payten & Jones at Meletos. The Chardonnay, as described by Behn and Troy, strikes a balance between traditional flavour and texture with a touch of contemporary freshness, devoid of oak influence. The Pinot Noir shows a nose of raspberry liquorice and offers that same delightful flavour on the palate, culminating in a crisp, refreshing finish—a great representation of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir.

We asked Behn and Troy how they best enjoy Payten & Jones wines to which they answered in their typical humour

”Jonesy [Troy] has the Pinot whilst deciding what to drink, realising it’s what he wants to drink and then while choosing what to drink next.

Payto [Behn] loves a cheeky one when he’s got a pair of tongs in his other hand and is smelling of charcoal and reverse seared tomahawk fat.”

We’re really excited to be showcasing this Enigmatic Duo’s wines at Meletos for the month of November and look forward to sharing them with you.

Find out more about Payten & Jones at https://www.pj.wine/

Book a table at Meletos here.