VINEYARD

The Crawford River vineyard is situated in far south west Victoria, approximately 50kms inland from the wild Southern Ocean.  Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon are the two main varieties in the vineyard, with smaller plantings of Cabernet Franc, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.
 

We are a cool, not cold climate, with a long, even growing season.  Having neither a coastal nor Mediterranean climate, the vineyard enjoys a moderating influence from the Southern Ocean.  The vineyard is planted in a natural amphitheatre, with N-NW aspect on gently undulating slopes.  Situated at the confluence of an ancient risen seabed and volcanic plain, we have an unusually complex, mineral-rich soil composition.  Our duplex soils are gravelly loam over an ironstone-rich clay loam, ultimately lying above a limestone base.  These combined aspects of our site help create intensity of flavour while maintaining acid balance and integrity.   

With a view to sustainability and our passion for natural systems, we manage the vineyard without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or fungicides.  In 2008, we ceased the use of under-vine herbicide, purchasing an under-vine slasher to control unruly summer grass.  The application of organic compost and mulching of our pruning canes helps maintain our soil health, carbon levels and biodiversity.  We graze sheep in the vineyard after vintage and pruning, avoiding the need for additional tractor passes, while naturally fertilizing our soils! 
 
All major activities including picking, pruning and canopy management are done by hand.  ​