FORGING THE PATH TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
McLaren Vale’s growers and producers have embraced sustainable viticulture and winemaking with a passion that is truly exemplary, making them the Australian leaders in sustainable winegrowing. The region’s abundant natural assets and commitment to making wines that have an unmistakable sense of place result in a steadfast commitment to environmental responsibility and the widespread adoption of innovative agricultural practices.
A significant number of McLaren Vale's winemakers prioritise organic and biodynamic farming, reduced chemical usage, and biodiversity preservation. They understand that a healthy ecosystem is crucial for grapevine health and wine quality, which is reflected in the superior wines produced here.
Read the latest regional Sustainable Winegrowing Australia results:
65% OF OUR REGION'S ANNUAL WATER DEMAND IS FROM A SUSTAINABLE SOURCE
McLaren Vale is home to the first and largest recycled water network in Australia, that supplies a sustainable water source of approximately 7250ML/annum of recycled water to around 240 irrigation customers across the McLaren Vale wine region.
This network is provided and managed by Willunga Basin Water.
177% GROWTH IN SUSTAINABLE WINEGROWING AUSTRALIA CERTIFICATION
Since 2022, the number of certified members of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia in the McLaren Vale wine region has grown from 49 to 136 certified members at the end of the 2022/23 reporting period. That's 122 vineyards and 14 wineries that have completed an independent audit against the Australian Wine Industry Standards of Sustainable Practice (AWISSP).
37% OF McLAREN VALE'S VINEYARDS ARE CERTIFIED BIODYNAMIC & ORGANIC
This is highest number of certified biodynamic and organic vineyards of all Australian wine regions*, with many more producers practicing organic, biodynamic and regenerative processes in their vineyards. Minimising the use of external inputs supports McLaren Vale's producers to capture a pure expression of McLaren Vale terroir in the bottle.
*Source: AWRI Vineyard Practices Survey