Biodynamics

As a property long farmed biodynamically and then certified in 1993, the first plantings of vines in 2001 naturally were done biodynamically without the use of herbicides or artificial fertilisers. As fervent practitioners of biodynamic wine growing, we respect biodynamics as a sensitivity to the rhythms of nature, the health of the soil and the connection between plant, animal and cosmos.  It is a pragmatic solution to farming without the use of chemicals and a necessary acknowledgement that the farm unit is part of a greater whole.  Through the application of biodynamic compost and the biodynamic preparations we are aiming to build life in the soil and bring balance and vitality in the vine. 

"It is our inherent belief that only through the practice of biodynamics can we allow the vineyard to reach its potential."

Biodynamics creates a soil full of life where healthy microbial activity encourages humus and nutrient availability and ultimately strengthens the life force of the vine.  To enable this, we make the 8 biodynamic preparations as well as special soil and foliar brews - made from sea weed, fish, equisetum/casuarina, stinging nettle, chamomile or yarrow. These are essential immunity boosts to the vines at times of stress or fungal pressure.  Large volumes of biodynamic compost are also made and applied to the soil annually. Milk whey is our standard replacement for sulphur sprays and, not in all years, we apply a cow manure based paste to pruning wounds in winter. 

Our animal husbandry is also simple yet thoughtful with each herd being moved between pastures every 10 days to reduce disease pressure, homeopathic and herbal potions being given when needed and often a homemade mineral & molasses lick is concocted during the summer months when pasture nutrition is at its lowest.