VINEYARD NEWS - DEVELOPMENTS

In 2009, in response to changing climatic conditions and market demand, in recognition that not all the varieties and clones originally planted were ideal for the site and as a result of the discovery of the vineyard pest ‘phylloxera’ in vineyard soils, we began a six-year vineyard redevelopment plan that will hopefully hold us in good stead for the future.

Phylloxera is an infamous soil-borne vineyard pest that over the centuries has been responsible for the death, destruction and demise of many of the world’s vineyards via its attack on the vine’s root system. Until 2007, the Australian population was thought to be isolated to the soils of North East Victoria and some southern regions of NSW, but unfortunately it was discovered in some Yarra Valley vineyards in 2007.

Fortunately, seventy percent of our original vines were planted on resistant rootstock, but we will be gradually replanting non-stock vines as their health begins to diminish and to ensure the endurance of our fabulous site.

We have removed Marsanne and the majority of our Viognier vines and are very excited about the four new clones of Shiraz (it is now warm enough to grow spicy cool-climate Shiraz in the Yarra Valley) planted last year as well as some very unusual trial varieties that will be planted this spring.