Torbreck Achieves SWA Certification
Torbreck achieves 'Sustainable Winegrowing Australia' Cerification
Since its establishment in 1994, Torbreck Vintners has been committed to regenerative and sustainable vineyard management in the Barossa Valley. From the outset, the company has championed the preservation of the Barossa Valley’s old vines and historic vineyards.
Over the years, Torbreck has progressively expanded its vineyard footprint while working to restore, improve and maintain the precious old vines within its vineyards. Throughout the 2000s, the company was actively involved in vineyard restoration and sustainable vineyard management, culminating in the redevelopment of its historic Hillside property at Lyndoch.
The Hillside redevelopment included the planting of 25 hectares of new vineyard, incorporating 13 old-vine Shiraz clones. These included material sourced from the company’s own historic vineyards, as well as commercially available old-vine clones. As part of the redevelopment, Torbreck also undertook the restoration of the property’s historic buildings, including its historic winery.
An important component of the redevelopment was the protection and restoration of the surrounding natural environment. Approximately 40 hectares of remnant scrubland has been placed under conservation, while previously cleared areas have been progressively replanted with native species.
TTorbreck joined Sustainable Winegrowing Barossa in 2016 and this year achieved Sustainable Winegrowing Australia (SWA) certification for its vineyards and winery. Given the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainable vineyard management, the certification provided an important opportunity to formally recognise and communicate our sustainability journey to our customers and the broader wine trade.
With Torbreck’s strong export focus, SWA certification also responds to increasing demand from international markets for independently recognised sustainability credentials.
Ian Hongell,
General Manager & Chief Winemaker, Torbreck Vintners
Sustainable Winegro![]()
wing Australia
Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is Australia’s national program for grapegrowers and winemakers to demonstrate and continuously improve their sustainability in the vineyard and winery through the environmental, social and economic aspects of their businesses.
The program takes a holistic approach to managing, supporting and promoting sustainability. It fosters stronger relationships between growers, wineries and their regions. It also provides authority and confidence to customers, who receive reliable certified produce to address growing global consumer demand. No matter where a grapegrower or winemaker is on the journey, the program is relevant and user-friendly.
The program is administered by the Australian Wine Research Institute with governance, endorsement and active support from Australian Grape & Wine and Wine Australia. The program is modelled on global best practices and aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with progress towards these monitored annually.
Learn more at sustainablewinegrowing.com.au