Thunder Ridge Wines

The vineyard is situated 985 metres above sea level. The view from the vineyard stretches from here to eternity across a tranquil rural landscape. It is situated only a stones throw away from the rugged Gara Gorge. With a 1000 metre drop from top to bottom we consider this "our other good drop".

The New England is well known for its crisp, bracing winter, mild summer and glowing autumn. It is this temperate climate that allows the fruit to ripen slowly and develop the wonderful flavours associated with cool climate wine.

Care of our vines and consideration for our environment are our highest priorities. We recognise our obligations to meet industry, government and community expectations in relation to our environmental duty of care. In order to achieve our production goals, and produce a quality product with minimal impact on the environment, Thunder Ridge has adopted the principals of Integrated Pest Management. This approach uses a combination of different control strategies to overcome pests, weeds and disease. Combining these strategies reduces our reliance on chemicals in the vineyard. The chemicals that are used are carefully selected so they don't harm us, our birds, reptiles and beneficial bugs. Consequently those birds, lizards and good bugs help us control our bad bugs. We are proud to say that not a single pesticide was used during the 2006/07 season.

Sheep are introduced into the vineyard during winter in order to reduce our use of herbicides. During the coming winter months we will be mulching our under vine area to help further reduce our need for herbicides in the vineyard. We perform regular soil & petiole analysis to assist us in developing an appropriate fertiliser management plan. Our grape yields are closely monitored, and supplementary water is used rarely.

Our vines are spur pruned by hand and all harvesting is done by hand.

Our Wine

The Australian Wine and Brandy Corp (AWBC) is the government body responsible for regulating the wine industry in Australia. Under the AWBC's Label Integrity Program at least 85% or more of the wine must come from the region of origin, and at least 85% of the fruit must be the variety specified on the label.

Only grapes grown at Thunder Ridge are used for making Thunder Ridge wines. Our chardonnay is 100% chardonnay. Our Merlot is 100% merlot. Our wines are 100% true New England flavour.