Australian Vintage, one of Australia’s largest vineyard owners with more than 2,600 hectares under vine, has achieved certification of 100 percent of its owned and operated vineyards by Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
Australian Vintage senior viticulture manager Jurie Germishuys says, “The SWA certification supports Australian Vintage in progressing our sustainability roadmap – incorporating regenerative agriculture practices and monitoring impact.
“Across our vineyards we’ve installed soil moisture probes that allow us to water when required, preventing excess water use and soil erosion, as well as replacing machinery and equipment with energy efficient alternatives like our electric forklifts.
“We’ll continue to investigate native plant species to increase biodiversity and attract beneficial insects.
“The certification is a great achievement of our operations and viticulture teams at each site and the business as a whole, as we formalise our approach and commitment to sustainable winemaking.
“It’s important we do good – for the land, our business and future generations.”
Sustainable Winegrowing Australia encourages continuous improvement across all elements including:
- Water: maximising water use efficiency;
- Energy: switching to renewable energy sources;
- Land and soil: protecting and enhancing soil for long-term productivity;
- Waste: avoiding, reducing and finding innovative uses for waste;
- Biodiversity: restoring flora and fauna; and
- People and business: fostering strong supply chain and local community relations
Dr Mardi Longbottom, manager Sustainability and Viticulture at the Australian Wine Research Institute, who manages the technical aspects of the program, says, “We are encouraged by the momentum and increasing ambition of our growing membership and are confident we will achieve world-leading recognition.
“By purchasing wines from a certified producer, consumers can feel confident that they’re supporting sustainable-minded growers and winemakers, who are on a journey to shape the Australian wine community for good.”
Recent data from Wine Intelligence shows that 65 percent of Australian wine drinkers say they prefer sustainable made wine. And 54 percent of global wine drinkers only trust sustainable wine that is officially certified.
Australian Vintage’s pillar brands include Tempus Two, Nepenthe, McGuigan Wines and Barossa Valley Wine Company.
Photo: Jurie Germishuys, senior viticulture manager of Australian Vintage.
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