Caring for Country

Plantagenet Wines is very aware of how precious it is to reside where the biodiversity is of international significance. With this awareness Plantagenet Wines have:

Adopted Efficient Vineyard Practices

A selection of nitrogen fixing crops and native grasses are grown between the rows of vines to improve water retention, soil structure, soil biodiversity, fertility and reduce water run-off.

Only fungicides and chemicals that are accepted under organic guidelines are used on the estate and then only when absolutely necessary. With the exception of clearing weeds for the establishment of new vines or creating legally required fire breaks, herbicides are not used in any of the vineyards.

Our vine canopy management program improves ventilation and lessens the risk of fungal attack which in turn reduces chemical usage. Guinea fowl, have been introduced into the vineyard as effective pest controllers.

Restored and Regenerated Land

The replanting of native vegetation in previously cleared areas that are not required for vines is an ongoing commitment to returning these areas to their original state. This brings welcomed biodiversity to the site which in turn assists with pest control.

In October 2007, Plantagenet was granted government funding for a Waterway Regeneration Project at the Rosetta property. The work was conducted under the auspices of the Great Southern Catchment Group and involved the clearing weeds and pasture species from the land adjacent to the creek line. Fallen trees were then pushed into the creek to slow the water flow, create small ponds and raise the fallen water table to assist in the establishment of new native vegetation along the creek. This creek line was then fenced off. The project also included the planting of a range of locally native species.

Minimised Waste

A by-product of pressing grapes is the skins, referred to as marc. For many years this by-product was sold to a local pig farmer. More recently it has been recognised as a rich organic product beneficial to the soil. It is now returned to the vineyard as mulch and in turn improves the water-holding capacity, health and biodiversity of the soil.

Minimised Environmental Impact

Winery buildings at Plantagenet Wines are constructed with maximum insulation to reduce refrigeration requirements.

Plantagenet Wines’ staff fly ‘carbon neutral’ by purchasing Qantas airline’s carbon credits.

Plantagenet is powered by Green Energy. This is a government-supervised scheme which allows environmentally aware businesses to purchase 100% natural power. This is an extra expense for the company which ensures that all of Plantagenet Wines’ power comes from 100% renewable sources.