Margaret River, Western Australia (July 09, 2020) - McHenry Hohnen today announced they have attained biodynamic certification for their winery and southernmost Margaret River Vineyard: Hazel’s Vineyard.
After 12 years farming biodynamically, earning formal certification was a logical step for McHenry Hohnen and one which required little change to their well established viticultural practices.
Formerly known as Rocky Road Vineyard, Hazel’s Vineyard was farmed organically after purchasing from Albert and Shirley Engler in 1997. The move towards biodynamics came when Viticulturalist Mike Sleegers joined the team in 2008.
Mike Sleegers said, ”We have a duty to ensure that we restore the natural soil ecology to what it once was, and when we've got it there, to put back whatever we take out. This is where biodynamics plays a significant role”.
Winemaker, Jacopo Dalli Cani said, “Farming this way naturally provides lower yields which translates into greater flavour intensity and a more balanced chemistry which allows a minimalistic approach in the winery”.
Biodynamics is an extension of organics that was first introduced in 1924 by Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher. He saw the effect modern agriculture was having on soil health and advocated for the use of certain preparations and techniques and their interactions so these could work in harmony to improve soil health and revive the land.
McHenry Hohnen’s biodynamic certification was awarded by Australian Certified Organics: Australia’s largest certifier for organic and biodynamic produce. Biodynamic certification ensures compliance with national and international production standards and allows trace back of all products to their origin.
Founded in 2004, McHenry Hohnen was a family venture for brothers-in-law Murray McHenry and David Hohnen. With Murray being an accomplished fine wine retailer and David a Margaret River winemaking pioneer, their experience in making wine in the area dates back to the early 70’s. With the adoption of biodynamic and organic farming techniques and minimal intervention in the winery, McHenry Hohnen creates wines that are a pure reflection of place.
McHenry Hohnen wines that are 100% from Hazel Vineyard include Rolling Stone, Hazel's Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon, Hazel's Vineyard Syrah, Hazel's Vineyard Zinfandel and Hazel's Vineyard
Chardonnay.
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