About This Vineyard
This organic vineyard was first established in 1990 as ‘Lavender Bay’ in the rich soils of Paringa Road, Red Hill South. Following the initial plantings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay vines were introduced in 1996. The property was acquired in early 2002 and renamed Prancing Horse Estate. We immediately commenced a programme to revitalise the property and implement organic farming, appointing Paul Danaher to manage day to day viticulture.
The decision was taken to significantly prune the pinot noir and introduce a new trellis system to contain growth vigour and improve canopy management. The 2004 vintage was the first year we released a pinot noir. From 2004 to 2007 we had an intensive program in place to remove all pesticides, herbicides and fungicides from the property.
To date only very limited amounts have been used in 2002 and 2004. Since 2004 we have been successful in avoiding the need for any of these being applied in the vineyard. From 2006 we also engaged Yves Herody, soil consultant to a number of leading domaines in Burgundy, France, to advise us on the future management of the soils of our vineyard. This is an essential component of our overall organic and biodynamic practices. In applying organic and bio dynamic practices we seek to maximise the flavour potential and fruit balance in our vineyards.