In 2003 we astablished our vineyard exercising organic practises for pest and disease, from 2008 we have increasingly been actively involved in biodynamic conversion. Under vine is mulched using straw, with strawberry clover allowed to establish a hold on the inner row area.

Being blessed by the maritime/cool climate and the moderating effects of the sea breeze, early ripening varieties were chosen.

• Pinot Noir clones D5V12, 115, MV6, and 777 (new French clone)
• Merlot D3V14
• Tempranillo D8V12
• Cabernet SA125
• Riesling McWilliams all were grafted onto Schwarzmann rootstocks.

The reason to go with grafted vines was determined by the richness of the soil. To enable the control of excess vine vigor we planted drought resistant rootstock and the whole vineyard is completely dry grown. Together with the prevailing winds this all helps to balance vine growth.

The 2,900 vines planted are trellised using VSP with a cordon wire at 850mm of height with due north & south orientation.

The vines are cane pruned, and shoot thinned in the Spring, bunch thinning also occurs at variation to reduce yield to a maximum of 1 to 1.5 tonne and acre.

   All fruit is meticulously hand picked at optimum ripeness.