Bondar

Bondar Wines

Established: Alternative variety specialist
Location: McLaren Vale, South Australia
Focus: Mediterranean and alternative varieties
Philosophy: Viticultural diversity exploration

https://www.bondarwines.com.au/

Alternative Variety Pioneer

Bondar Wines has established itself as a leader in exploring alternative varieties that thrive in McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate. Their experimental approach helps demonstrate the region's potential beyond traditional Australian wine varieties.

Mediterranean Climate Advantage

McLaren Vale's climate provides ideal conditions for Mediterranean varieties:

• Warm, dry summers similar to Mediterranean regions
• Cool winter periods for vine dormancy
• Suitable rainfall patterns
• Soil types compatible with alternative varieties

Variety Portfolio

Bondar works with an impressive range of alternative varieties:

• Italian varieties: Sangiovese, Fiano, Vermentino, Nebbiolo**
• Spanish varieties: Tempranillo, Graciano, Albariño**
• Portuguese varieties: Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão**
• Rhône varieties: Roussanne, Marsanne, Counoise**

Experimental Approach

The winery maintains an experimental mindset:

• Small-batch trials of new varieties
• Different winemaking techniques for each variety
• Climate adaptation studies
• Terroir matching for optimal expression

Education Mission

Bondar serves an educational role in the wine industry:

• Consumer education about alternative varieties
• Industry demonstration of variety potential
• Research sharing with other producers
• International variety comparison studies

Winemaking Adaptation

Each variety requires specific winemaking approaches:

• Traditional techniques from varieties' origin regions
• Adaptation to local conditions
• Fermentation method optimization
• Aging program development for each variety

Market Development

Bondar helps develop markets for alternative varieties:

• Restaurant trade education
• Consumer tasting events
• Wine writer and critic engagement
• Export market development

Quality Standards

Despite experimental nature, quality remains paramount:

• Rigorous fruit selection
• Professional winemaking standards
• Proper aging and development
• Release timing optimization

Industry Impact

Bondar's work influences the broader Australian wine industry:

• Variety diversification encouragement
• Climate adaptation strategies
• Market expansion possibilities
• Viticultural knowledge advancement

Visitor Experience

Cellar door tastings provide unique opportunities to explore varieties rarely available elsewhere, with educational components explaining each variety's characteristics, origins, and potential in Australian conditions.