Biodynamic farming is not magic, nor is it a mystical belief that relies more upon hope than science. Biodynamics is simply a way of farming that enhances the soil and the environment around it through natural improvers rather than chemical sprays.
Biodynamic wines grounded in earth
Instead of spraying weeds we will recruit flocks of sheep to eat them for us or use our dodge plough to pull them out. Instead of spraying synthetic fertilisers we fill cow horns with fresh manure, bury them and dig them up months later when the manure has transformed into a rich, concentrated fertiliser. Rather than hoping our vineyards are not infected by a fungal outbreak, we spray prepared natural ground quartz over our vines to strengthen the cell walls. This makes them fungus resistant while also enhancing the effects of natural sunlight and promoting stronger growth. If a problem occurs in the vineyard, we use a natural preparation spray to solve it, rather than a chemical.
And then there is the moon. Just as the moon causes the tides in the Gulf of St. Vincent, only a few short kilometres to the west of us, it also affects the way our plants grow and produce fruit. We plant, graft and harvest according to the phases of the moon. We do this because we will always endeavour to do everything we can to enhance the quality of our grapes.
Organic + Sustainable
Beyond farming biodynamically and organically, we use recycled water in our vineyards and have solar panels to power our irrigation pumps, winery and cellar door. We do all of this for the improvement of our land, so we can pass its custodianship to the next generation in a better condition than we received it. We are biodynamic farmers because we know it is better for our soil, vineyards, employees and the flavour of our fruit. Biodynamics is not magic, but since we have changed the way we farm it has produced some magical results.
take a tour
Being Biodynamic Experience
The moon and nature are key contributors to Gemtreeās wines. Take a walk with us as we demystify biodynamics with a bite to eat and a personalised wine tasting! Learn about biodynamic grape growing and wine making during a relaxing guided tour of Gemtreeās Biodynamic Hut, and see firsthand how this philosophy is applied in the vineyards. CompleteĀ your tour with a delicious regional platter featuring some of the Valeās finest produce, cheeses, condiments and locally baked breads.
Gemtree Eco Trail
Please note the Eco Trail is currently closed for public access until further notice. It remains a thriving, biodiverse home to native plants and wildlife.
When the Buttery family took over the McLaren Vale property there existed a 10-hectare barren piece of land that had been cleared for cattle grazing. Within this land there was a creek line overgrown with feral weeds and strewn with rubbish from past farming use. We knew this area needed to be restored to natural bush and wetlands to vastly improve the biodiversity of our vineyard, contribute to the survival of local native species and ensure ecological balance was maintained on the property.
In 2001 the local community came together, clearing the rubbish from the creek. Gemtree partnered with Greening Australia to develop the site, planting more than 50,000 native trees and shrubs. The site is now a biodiverse wetland and a haven for native birds, plants and animals.