In recent years, demand for biodynamic wines has gained a push from consumers. For some winemakers, it has created a niche market that is set to grow rapidly. However, there are already a few established players in this segment.
Family-owned wine company Paxton Wines is a leader in both organic and biodynamic viticulture and winemaking. Located in the heart of McLaren Vale, South Australia, the winery was founded by Australia’s most highly respected viticulturists David Paxton in 1979.
What is Biodynamic Wine?
The base of biodynamic farming is soil health. This does not simply mean the adjustment of nutrient levels. The farming aims to maintain a balanced and diverse population of soil biology. Compost applications initiate conditions favourable to soil micro-organisms which are active in making nutrients available to plants in a natural form. Vegetation and composts are broken down to form humus which improves soil structure and better holds water and nutrients. Irrigation inputs are thus reduced.
According to David, biodynamics is the most advanced form of organic farming. It uses natural preparations and composts, to bring the soil and the vine into balance, resulting in exceptionally pure and expressive fruit. Healthy vines make better wines which is why Paxton vineyards mimic the characteristics of a natural system. The winery seeks to promote diversity and allow the natural balance to counter the effects of pests or disease.
First Release
The Paxton family have nurtured their own vineyards in McLaren Vale for three decades.
In 2000, the first wine under the PAXTON label was released: the 1998 Paxton Shiraz. Today, under the direction and guidance of winemaker Richard Freebairn, Paxton produces a range of estate-grown wines under the family label. The vineyards are spread across a diverse number of sites and soil types, which are managed without compromise from planting to harvest.
David tries to minimise inputs and manages the Paxton vineyards biodynamically – a system of farming without the use of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides with a focus on promoting healthy, living soils through the use of natural compost preparation. In 2011, the winery became a fully certified organic and biodynamic wine producer.
The Paxton wine range showcases McLaren Vale’s fruit quality, natural diversity and varietal expression. In the winery, minimal winemaking intervention ensures the integrity of the fruit from vineyard to bottle.
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