Sustainability at Plantagenet Wines: Nurturing the Land for Future Generations

For Plantagenet Wines in Mount Barker, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a philosophy woven into every aspect of vineyard management and winemaking.

As one of the pioneers of the Great Southern wine region, Plantagenet has long understood that producing exceptional wines goes hand in hand with caring for the land and as climate challenges grow, that commitment has only deepened.

“We don’t see sustainability as a choice,” says owner Tom Wisdom. “It’s a responsibility. We’re custodians of this land and we have to ensure it thrives for generations to come.”

A Deep Connection to the Land

Established in the late 1960s, Plantagenet was the first winery in the Great Southern, a region renowned for its pristine environment and diverse microclimates. Among these, Mount Barker – home to Plantagenet – stands out for its distinctive climatic conditions. Situated 35km from the coast at an elevation of 300m, it experiences minimal ocean influence, allowing for significantly cooler nights. This natural cooling effect plays a crucial role in preserving acidity, a defining characteristic of wines from Mount Barker, Porongurup and Frankland River.

The combination of gravelly loam soils and a true continental climate provides an ideal foundation for varieties such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, as summers become drier and weather patterns more unpredictable, the team at Plantagenet continues to adapt, ensuring their vineyards remain resilient and their wines continue to reflect the unique terroir of the Great Southern.

“We’re seeing shifts in ripening times and water availability,” says Wisdom. “You can’t just stick to the way things have always been done. You have to be proactive, not reactive – constantly learning and improving.”

Sustainable Vineyard Practices

That philosophy shapes everything in the vineyard. Owner Tom is a trained viticulturist, and he leads the charge alongside Vineyard Manager Peter Price.

“Minimal intervention is key,” explains Wisdom. “We limit chemical use, encourage biodiversity, and focus on soil health so the vines can express their natural character.”

Instead of relying on synthetic fertilisers, the team builds soil health through composting and cover crops. Pesticides are kept to an absolute minimum, with native vegetation encouraged to attract beneficial insects.

“The goal is balance. If you take care of the soil, the vines will take care of themselves. We want them to be resilient, to dig deep and to truly reflect this place,” states Wisdom.

Water is another major focus, especially with Mount Barker experiencing drier conditions in recent years. The winery has invested in moisture-monitoring technology that simulates natural rainfall events to ensure irrigation is as efficient as possible. “It’s not just about using less water – it’s about using it at the right time, in the right way. Every drop counts,” Tom describes.

Facing Climate Change Head On

Beyond sustainable vineyard management, Plantagenet is also looking ahead at how climate change will shape the future of winemaking in the region. Trialling heat-resistant rootstocks, experimenting with different canopy management techniques and staying flexible with picking decisions are all part of the strategy.

“We have to be smart about it,” says Wisdom. “The climate is shifting, but that doesn’t mean we compromise on quality. It just means we must think differently, adapt and always be one step ahead.”

This forward-thinking approach is strengthened by Plantagenet owner Dr. Jo Wisdom, a viticulture expert with a PhD focused on carbohydrate flux in grapevines and plays a key role in our approach to resilience. As the current Director of the South West Drought and Resilience Hub – one of only eight in Australia – she leads groundbreaking research and innovation programs within Western Australia’s farming systems. Her work, funded at a federal level, is crucial in helping agricultural businesses, including vineyards like ours, navigate the challenges of a changing climate.

Community and Industry Leadership

That mindset extends beyond the winery doors. Plantagenet collaborates with local environmental initiatives to share knowledge and drive change within the industry.

“It’s not just about what we’re doing here,” Wisdom says. “If we all adopt better practices, the entire industry benefits. Sustainability isn’t a competition – it’s something we all have to commit to if we want to keep making great wine in the future.”

A Commitment to the Future

For Plantagenet, sustainability is more than a promise – it’s a deeply ingrained philosophy.

“At the end of the day, we’re not just growing grapes. We’re nurturing an ecosystem. Every decision we make, from the vineyard to the bottle, is about ensuring this land remains healthy and productive for the long term,” Tom emphasises.

And for wine lovers, that means every bottle of Plantagenet is not only a reflection of the Great Southern’s pristine landscape, but also a testament to the care and respect with which it was made.