our organic vineyards
Koonara’s Organic Vineyard: Pioneering Sustainability in Coonawarra
Koonara Wines, nestled in the heart of Coonawarra, are proud to be at the forefront of organic viticulture. Our commitment to organic practices is not just about crafting superior wines; it’s about fostering a sustainable environment and enriching the terroir that sets our wines apart.
Since achieving organic certification in 2017, we have been Coonawarra’s sole certified organic vineyard.

Sustainable Viticulture Practices
Our organic journey is deeply rooted in the belief that nature knows best. We have refrained from using chemical pesticides, and only use organic sprays (when required), focusing instead on a nourishing the vines with custom mineral mixes that nurtures the soil and vine’s natural balance. The real heroes of our vineyards, however, are the beneficial insects and bugs who work alongside our carefully managed weed growth. These natural allies are integral to our ecosystem, enhancing biodiversity and soil health, which, in turn, enhances our vine vitality.
The Role of Weeds
Contrary to conventional practices, we embrace weeds as essential ecological partners. Their presence mitigates soil compaction and enhances moisture retention, which is crucial for maintaining vine health during Coonawarra’s dry spells. Additionally, our strategic planting of specific flowers attracts beneficial insects and bugs that naturally control pest populations, minimising our need for chemical intervention.

THE Tiny Titans of Pest Control
Among our most valued beneficial bugs are the Trichogramma carverae, the world’s smallest insect and a parasitic wasp. These minuscule warriors target the eggs of the light brown apple moth, laying their own eggs inside to prevent future infestations. Similarly, the Euplectrus agaristae craw combats the grapevine moth by injecting venom into caterpillars, halting their metamorphosis while their larvae consume the host.
Another remarkable protector is the Echthromorpha intricatoria, or Whitespotted Ichneumon. These wasps use their ovipositors to lay eggs inside caterpillars, providing a food source for their emerging larvae. Unlike many wasps, these females do not sting, making them perfect partners in our vineyard’s balanced ecosystem.
Braconidae wasps and the Eurytoma Wasp also play significant roles as parasitic protectors against various moth species, ensuring that our grapevines remain healthy without the use of harmful pesticides.
The Hoverfly, with its deceptive wasp-like appearance, is a brilliant example of nature’s mimicry. While the adults feed on nectar, their larvae are voracious predators of aphids, helping to keep our vines healthy and thriving.

A web of guardians
Our vineyards are also guarded by the majestic Golden Orb Spiders, known for their impressive web-building skills. These spiders ingeniously construct their webs at night and dismantle them at dawn to evade predatory birds. These clever spiders are crucial for pest control, acting as natural predators to a variety of insect pests. They help maintain a balanced ecosystem by preying on insects like moths, beetles, and caterpillars that can cause significant damage to grapevines.
By reducing the population of these pests, spiders help decrease the need for intervention. Their ability to change colour to match their surroundings is a mesmerising sight, which also enhances their survival and effectiveness as pest controllers.
The Celaenia excavata, or bird-dropping spider, is another fascinating member of our vineyard. It cleverly mimics bird droppings to avoid predators, providing it a unique camouflage against potential threats.
Our Commitment to the Future
Embracing organic viticulture wasn’t just about changing our farming practices; it represented a fundamental shift in how we interact with the land. This commitment has not only reduced our carbon footprint but also significantly boosted the biodiversity of our vineyard, which in turn has created a robust, self-sustaining ecosystem.
We’re open about our methods and results. Our detailed organic spray program provides a blueprint for others interested in this approach. By sharing our experiences, we aim to encourage and support other vineyards in adopting eco-friendly practices, helping to transform Coonawarra and beyond.
Discover more about our journey toward sustainability and how we maintain our organic vineyard by visiting us at our Cellar Door
