Organic Viticulture at Battle of Bosworth
Organic farming is based on minimising the use of external inputs, and as such our certified organic grapes are grown and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, or GMOs. Our system of organic viticulture at Battle of Bosworth works with nature rather than against it, and by keeping harmful chemicals out of the land, water and air, creates a healthy environment rich in flora, fauna and nutrients; the perfect environment for growing the very best quality wine grapes.
Conversion to organic viticulture began in 1995. Battle of Bosworth now has a significant holding of 20 years and older Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Viognier, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc and Mourvèdre (as well as a little Graciano and Touriga Nacional) vines which are fully certified organic by Australian Certified Organic (http://www.australianorganic.com.au), a process that takes four years. Certification involves yearly audits and random sampling of produce.
A lot of what we do in the vineyard is simply old-fashioned grape growing; essentially, our vineyards are run as they would have been 50 years ago before synthetic pesticides and fertilizers became available. We’ve also developed a method of sustainable weed management whereby Soursobs (oxalis pes caprae) are encouraged to grow under-vine to out-compete other weeds, as well as using modified vineyard machinery to increase efficiency and minimise environmental impact. We have also spent considerable time and effort in extensive re-vegetation projects on the vineyard by removing feral species and replanting natives, helping both to improve biodiversity and the natural aesthetics of the vineyards and creeks.”
Joch combats any weeds in partnership with the soursob (Oxalis pes-caprae), the pretty yellow flower which also features on the Battle of Bosworth label. Growing rapidly under vine with the onset of winter rains, the Soursob out-competes other weeds in winter and forms a natural weed mat in spring and summer. The lifecycle of the soursob fits very well with the grape vine as it uses water in winter when the vine is dormant and dies off in summer as the vines’ water requirements increases.