Gemtree

Gemtree Wines

Established: Third generation family winery
Location: 167 Elliott Road, McLaren Flat, South Australia
Specialty: Certified organic and biodynamic winemaking
Owners: Melissa Brown (viticulturist) and Mike Brown (winemaker)
Website: https://gemtreewines.com/

Leading Sustainable Innovation in McLaren Vale

Gemtree Wines stands as a beacon of sustainable innovation in McLaren Vale, representing the gold standard for organic and biodynamic winemaking in Australia. As one of only 22 wineries selected for the 'Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia' list and winner of the 2022 'Best Tasting Experience' in McLaren Vale by Gourmet Traveller WINE, Gemtree demonstrates that environmental stewardship and wine excellence are perfectly complementary.

Sustainability Leadership:

• Certified organic and biodynamic: NASAA certified for nearly a decade
• 37% regional influence: Contributing to McLaren Vale's 37% certified organic/biodynamic vineyards
• Carbon neutral goals: Working toward carbon positive operations
• Solar powered: Comprehensive solar installations across all facilities
• Industry pioneer: Leading by example in sustainable practices

Mike and Melissa Brown: Passionate Custodians

The husband and wife team of Mike Brown (winemaker) and Melissa Brown (viticulturist) represent the third generation of family ownership, bringing passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship to every aspect of Gemtree's operations.

Professional Expertise:

• Mike Brown: Passionate advocate for environmental winemaking practices
• Melissa Brown: Third generation viticulturist leading biodynamic conversion
• Complementary skills: Winemaking and viticulture expertise in harmony
• Shared vision: United commitment to sustainable excellence
• Industry leadership: Active in Sustainable Winegrowing Australia program development

Family Heritage:

• Three generations: Deep family roots in McLaren Vale viticulture
• 125-hectare vineyard: Substantial estate allowing comprehensive sustainable practices
• Long-term perspective: Generational thinking supporting environmental stewardship
• Community employment: Over 40 local employees providing stable employment
• Values-based leadership: Making employees feel valued and part of the vision

Comprehensive Biodynamic Operations

Gemtree's 125-hectare vineyard has been managed using biodynamic methods since 2007, with certification achieved nearly a decade ago, creating a 'living soil' ecosystem that produces exceptional fruit while supporting biodiversity.

Biodynamic Practices:

• Living soil philosophy: Building resilient soil microbiomes through natural methods
• Compost tea applications: Enhancing soil health and vine nutrition
• Biodynamic preparations: Traditional methods supporting vineyard vitality
• Native reserve sanctuary: On-site conservation area supporting local wildlife
• 10-year transformation: Gradual improvement culminating in dramatically enhanced wine quality from 2017

Environmental Impact:

• Soil health improvement: Visible enhancement in vine health and fruit quality
• Biodiversity support: Over 50,000 native plants establishing natural ecosystems
• Water conservation: Efficient irrigation supporting sustainable water use
• Carbon sequestration: Soil management contributing to climate change mitigation
• Pollution reduction: Minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact

Climate Adaptation and Variety Selection

Melissa Brown has strategically planted varieties suited to an increasingly warm Mediterranean climate, ensuring Gemtree's long-term sustainability while honoring McLaren Vale traditions.

Variety Portfolio:

• Traditional varieties: Shiraz and Grenache honoring regional heritage
• Climate-adapted varieties: Nero d'Avola and Fiano suited to warming conditions
• Cool climate whites: Chardonnay, Verdelho, and Riesling from elevated sites
• Mediterranean varieties: Tempranillo and Petit Verdot thriving in warm conditions
• Diverse plantings: 260 acres under vine supporting portfolio diversity

Strategic Planning:

• Future-focused: Anticipating climate change impacts on viticulture
• Research-based: Scientific approach to variety selection and placement
• Market awareness: Balancing sustainability with consumer preferences
• Risk management: Diversifying varieties to spread climatic risks
• Innovation within tradition: Respecting heritage while embracing change

Exceptional Wine Quality and Recognition

The transformation to biodynamic farming has created wines of remarkable quality, with noticeable improvements in color density, flavor concentration, and overall wine harmony since 2017.

Quality Improvements:

• Thicker skins: Enhanced grape structure from healthy vines
• Color density: Improved pigment concentration in red wines
• Flavor intensity: More concentrated and complex flavor development
• Natural balance: Wines fermenting cleaner without requiring fining
• Energetic character: Wines displaying distinctive vitality and vibrancy

Wine Characteristics:

• Vibrant expression: Biodynamic practices creating more lively wines
• Natural harmony: Balanced wines requiring minimal intervention
• Terroir authenticity: Pure expression of McLaren Vale character
• Aging potential: Structured wines developing beautifully over time
• Food compatibility: Elegant wines enhancing dining experiences

Innovative Visitor Experiences

Gemtree offers Australia's most comprehensive biodynamic education experiences, combining wine tasting with environmental education in stunning sustainable facilities.

Tasting Room and Facilities

Sustainable Architecture:

• Solar powered: Renewable energy powering all operations
• Recycled materials: Environmentally conscious construction choices
• Elevated views: Panoramic vistas from McLaren Vale to ocean
• Indoor/outdoor flow: Versatile spaces suitable for all weather
• Educational displays: Information about biodynamic practices and sustainability

Visitor Amenities:

• Heated deck: Comfortable outdoor tasting year-round
• Fire pit areas: Cozy gathering spaces for cooler weather
• Large open lawns: Spacious areas for relaxation and events
• Vineyard views: Immersive experience surrounded by organic vines
• Educational trails: Opportunities to explore sustainable practices

Signature Experiences

Being Biodynamic Tour:

• Comprehensive education: Deep dive into biodynamic philosophy and practices
• Vineyard walks: Guided tours through certified organic vineyards
• Biodynamic Hut: Interactive experience explaining preparation methods
• Expert guidance: Staff providing detailed insights into sustainable farming
• Hands-on learning: Opportunities to see biodynamic practices in action

Native Food Pairing:

• Seasonal native plates: Unique flavors showcasing local indigenous ingredients
• 50,000+ native plants: Extensive on-site native species providing ingredients
• Cultural connection: Experiencing country through indigenous food traditions
• Wine pairing: Organic and biodynamic wines complementing native flavors
• Educational component: Learning about indigenous food cultures and sustainability

Baked Cheese Experiences:

• Paris Creek Farms partnership: Organic/biodynamic cheese from premium producers
• Seasonal offerings: Triple cream Camembert with honey, cranberries, walnuts
• Garden ingredients: Saltbush and herbs from Gemtree's own gardens
• Winter warmth: Cozy experiences perfect for cooler weather
• Wine integration: Foundation Collection wines enhancing food experiences

Eco Trail and Conservation

Gemtree's commitment to environmental stewardship extends beyond the vineyard to comprehensive land restoration and conservation efforts.

Conservation Achievements:

• 10-hectare restoration: Transforming cleared cattle grazing land into thriving wetlands
• Creek rehabilitation: Removing feral weeds and rubbish, restoring natural waterways
• Native species sanctuary: Providing habitat for indigenous plants and wildlife
• Biodiversity enhancement: Creating ecological balance across the property
• Educational value: Demonstrating practical conservation for visitors

Environmental Impact:

• Species preservation: Contributing to survival of local native species
• Ecosystem restoration: Reestablishing natural bush and wetland environments
• Water quality improvement: Natural filtration through restored wetlands
• Carbon sequestration: Native plantings contributing to climate change mitigation
• Wildlife corridors: Connecting fragmented habitats for animal movement

CABN Partnership: Sustainable Accommodation

Gemtree's partnership with CABN provides unique sustainable accommodation experiences among the vineyards, extending their environmental mission to hospitality.

CABN Features:

• Off-grid design: Minimal environmental impact accommodations
• Vineyard locations: MILA and BELLA cabins situated among vines
• Sustainable philosophy: Shared commitment to environmental responsibility
• Immersive experiences: Guests connecting directly with nature and sustainability
• Educational opportunity: Learning about sustainable living through example

Guest Experience:

• Nature immersion: Sleeping among ancient towering gums and vines
• Sustainable luxury: Comfort without environmental compromise
• Educational component: Understanding sustainable practices through experience
• Relaxation focus: Encouraging guests to rediscover connection with nature
• Photography opportunities: Stunning natural settings for memorable experiences

Community Impact and Employment

Gemtree's commitment to sustainability extends to social responsibility, providing stable employment and community support while advancing environmental education.

Employment Philosophy:

• 40+ local employees: Significant contributor to regional employment
• Stable employment: Long-term positions supporting community prosperity
• Values alignment: Employees feeling valued and part of shared mission
• Skills development: Training opportunities in sustainable practices
• Community investment: Supporting local economy through wages and spending

Educational Mission:

• Public education: Teaching visitors about sustainable winemaking
• Industry leadership: Sharing knowledge with other producers
• Research collaboration: Contributing to sustainable viticulture advancement
• Policy influence: Supporting development of sustainable winegrowing standards
• Global impact: Participating in international environmental initiatives

Awards and Industry Recognition

Gemtree's excellence has earned prestigious recognition for both wine quality and sustainable tourism innovation.

Tourism Awards:

• Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia: One of only 22 wineries selected nationally
• Best Tasting Experience 2022: Gourmet Traveller WINE McLaren Vale winner
• Visitor satisfaction: Consistently outstanding reviews from guests
• Industry leadership: Setting standards for sustainable wine tourism
• International recognition: Attracting visitors from around the world

Sustainability Recognition:

• Certification achievements: NASAA organic and biodynamic certification
• Industry leadership: Recognized for pioneering sustainable practices
• Climate action: Acknowledged for environmental stewardship efforts
• Innovation awards: Recognition for creative approaches to sustainability
• Community impact: Honored for positive regional environmental influence

Future Vision: Carbon Positive Operations

Gemtree continues pushing sustainability boundaries with ambitious goals for carbon positive operations and enhanced environmental impact.

Environmental Goals:

• Carbon positive: Moving beyond carbon neutral to actively removing atmospheric carbon
• Circular economy: Waste elimination through comprehensive recycling and reuse
• Biodiversity expansion: Continuing native species restoration and habitat creation
• Water independence: Developing closed-loop water management systems
• Renewable energy: Expanding solar installations and exploring additional renewable sources

Innovation Areas:

• Regenerative agriculture: Advanced soil health and carbon sequestration techniques
• Climate resilience: Adapting to changing environmental conditions
• Technology integration: Using innovation to enhance sustainable practices
• Research partnerships: Collaborating with institutions on sustainability advancement
• Knowledge sharing: Teaching other producers about successful sustainable practices

Community Leadership:

• Regional influence: Inspiring other McLaren Vale producers to adopt sustainable practices
• Policy advocacy: Supporting legislation favouring environmental protection
• Education expansion: Increasing public awareness of sustainable agriculture benefits
• Tourism development: Creating models for sustainable wine tourism
• Global participation: Contributing to international climate change mitigation efforts

Gemtree Wines represents the future of Australian viticulture, proving that environmental stewardship, exceptional wine quality, and outstanding visitor experiences can combine to create a truly sustainable and profitable wine business that benefits the environment, community, and wine lovers alike.