FROM VINE TO TABLE

The Vineyard

The Origins Of Our Produce

THE PERFECT MIX

Organic Management

Grancari Estate Wines is owned and managed by Rino and Greta Ozzella who believe that natural methods of growing and managing their small organic vineyard and winemaking processes will benefit consumers now and maintain viable soils for future generations. New research is showing that organic methods, when used in agriculture, produce foods with more nutrients, and sometimes there is a remarkable improvement in the quality of these products. Many consumers describe organic produce as having more flavour.

Keeping this in mind, Rino and Greta have chosen not to use chemicals, weedicides or pesticides on their property, not only for their own health but for the health of their consumers and neighbours as well.

Rino manages the weeds by using a disc plough between the rows of vines and a French plough (dodge plough,) under the vines. A regular spray program using natural fungicides is maintained to manage possible outbreaks of disease.

Organic methods of management, bare earth cultivation, as well as limestone ridges, shale and sandy loam, contribute to the premium quality of the rich full bodied wines produced by Grancari Estate Wines.

Rino’s relatives in Italy have made their wines for generations without the use of preservatives and Grancari has decided to allow some of their organic wines to be sold preservative free for early consumption to consumers who may have allergies, or who simply prefer naturally produced wine.

New and old, French and American oak, including barrels direct from a small boutique cooper in France, are used to mature the organic wines.

COMPLETE PERFECTION

Our Origins

The origins of this small, organic winery, situated approximately a half an hours drive south of Adelaide, dates back to the early 1940s, when George Cox planted vines. The grenache vines, originally grown as bush vines, are still thriving today and are one of the few remaining early grenache plantings in the McLaren Vale region. The old wood enhances the flavour of the lovely red wines being created by the present owners.

During George’s early years the hand picked harvest was delivered to the Emu Winery at Morphett Vale. George sold the property and the vineyard was neglected for some years. During this time a lucerne patch was established which has since been planted with Shiraz.

The property was purchased by Rino and Greta Ozzella a few months after the bushfires of 1983. The family home was built and Rino and Greta were determined to re-establish the badly neglected vines. Using traditional knowledge handed down from Rino’s family in Italy, they began the job of restoring the 6 acres of grenache.

In 1993 two more vineyards were purchased, this time at Loxton. After 3 years of intensive hands on experience it was decided to sell the Riverland properties to allow time for a more personal touch to the management of the boutique vineyard. A planting of 4.5 acres of shiraz was completed in 1996 and the lucerne patch, 1.5 acres, was planted with shiraz in 1999.

The vines are grown on a westerly slope facing the sea, which ensures an early ripening of the berries. The afternoon sun, sea breezes and a mixture of light loamy soils with limestone ridges, help to create premium fruit, producing rich full bodied wines. Rino and Greta have been encouraged after winning many medals including gold and champion trophies.

The wines are estate grown and produced, ensuring integrity of the organic status, from the vineyard to the finished wines.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TERROIR

Selected Bottles

2018 Grenache Shiraz

This vintage has rich full fruit character. Minimal oak influence allows fresh clean berry flavours to dominate.

2018 Greta’s Shiraz

Grancari’s fully certified organic shiraz has ripe berry aromas, with full flavour and a deep rich colour. Aged in old and new French oak. A westerly aspect on the southern coastal foothills ensures a full ripening of the berries.

2020 Cheeky Wombat Rosé

This light and delicate Rosé is vibrant, fresh and crisp in character. Elegance for all occasions!

FROM VINE TO TABLE

Grancari Wines Cellar Door Experience

Come and meet Rino our Wine Maker. Visit our Cellar Door weekends and public holidays 1.30pm – 4pm. No booking required