About Basalt Wines

Celebrating 20 Years of winemaking

Just over 20 years ago Shane had an epiphany, while working in a vineyard in South West Australia with some Italian immigrants.

He realised he could combine his passion for farming, good wine and food, and settle back in Southwest Victoria to establish his own vineyard.

Although by trade he was an auto technician, he had worked in some swanky hospitality venues over the years, and enjoyed some of his youth working on his cousins Dairy Farms.

The next 20 years lead us to where Basalt Wines is today, and where it’s heading.

Winemaking At Basalt

Our journey began in 2003, set on a path of organic practices for pest and disease control.
And our philosophy evolved as we understand that great wine is all about what happens in the vineyard, maintain the soils and the vines.

Nestled in the Earth’s Embrace

Each vine that grows on our estate is cradled in black volcanic topsoil, speckled with basalt fragments – a memento from the ancient volcano that once reigned here.

Beneath this rich mantle, porous tufa, decomposed limestone and yellow sand layers reveal an incredible soil profile – the perfect canvas for cultivating our vines.

A Robust Horticultural Legacy

Our vineyard has deep roots in Victoria’s robust horticultural history, nurtured by Irish settlers who found a home from home in Killarney’s familiar landscapes.

Once a hub for potato and onion farming, our land is now dedicated to the art of viticulture.

Our Unique Vineyard Orientation

Planted on a gentle north-facing slope, our 2,900 vines are sheltered by native belts that provide refuge to local fauna and buffer against the bracing Southern Ocean wind.

The careful layout and orientation of the vineyard ensure each vine soaks up just the right amount of sunshine.

The Stars of our Vineyard

We’ve selected early ripening grape varieties to capitalize on our maritime/cool climate and the moderating effects of the sea breeze. We grow Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, and Riesling, each grafted onto Schwarzmann rootstocks.

The decision to use grafted vines stems from the need to control vine vigor due to the nutrient-rich soil. Plus, we use drought-resistant rootstock, and our vineyard is completely dry grown, all contributing to a balanced vine growth.

Holistic Vineyard Management

Our vines are trellised using the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) system and are meticulously hand pruned and thinned to achieve a maximum yield of 1 to 1.5 tonnes per acre.

At optimum ripeness, each grape bunch is handpicked with precision, reflecting our commitment to quality and sustainable practices.

Unlock Exclusive Perks with Basalt's VIP Club

Join our esteemed VIP Club to immerse yourself in the rich world of Basalt Wines.

Members enjoy complimentary cellar door tastings, exclusive access to our newest releases, special discounts, and a special surprise on their birthday.

JOIN THE CLUB TODAY

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