Our Vineyards

Knappstein takes a natural approach to viticulture, with particular attention to sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact

Knappstein works hard to ensure we achieve minimal impact on its surrounds whilst supporting sustainable practices at a viticultural, winery and office level. Extensive undervine mulching, the use of livestock for winter weed control, and the introduction of biological fungicides significantly reduces Knappstein's environmental footprint.

Based on a long-term sustainable approach, Knappstein has a key interest in soil health, vine nutrition and biological activity. Finding solutions to viticultural problems with reduced chemical applications is a real focus in order to maintain a balanced, natural biodiversity. 

Knappstein has been able to reap the rewards of this careful cultivation of its prized vineyard sites. The company will continue to invest in the natural environment to ensure a sustainable future for winemaking in the Clare Valley.

Watervale is home to some of the Clare Valley’s most recognised riesling vineyards, with the Ackland Vineyard being one of them. It sits predominantly on fertile red loam soils over calcium calcrete with large pockets of slate scattered throughout. At 450 to 500 metres above sea level, the vineyard often experiences quite dramatic diurnal temperature shifts in summer, leading to the retention of strong natural acids and the development of classic citrus and floral flavours.

Vineyard Coordinates: 33° 56’ 20, 52”S 138° 39’ 11, 98” E

Elevation: 450 - 500m

The Enterprise Vineyard was planted in 1969 and is located at the northern end of the Clare Valley. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are dry-grown on red loam soils and speak profoundly of a sense of place. The vineyard is planted with both easterly and westerly aspects producing grapes with a harmonious balance between strength and elegance. The vineyard has produced all the Enterprise Cabernet Sauvignon since 1974.

Vineyard Coordinates: 33° 50’ 36.25”S 138 38’ 26.00 E

Elevation: 478m

Planted by a former Mayor of Adelaide in 1969, The Mayor’s Vineyard is perched on the eastern ridge of the Clare Valley at a cool 500m altitude. The vineyard’s calcium calcrete soils are dotted with slate and have long produced savoury Shiraz wines of impeccable elegance. The low cropping vines and cool elevation combine to create wines of great varietal characters and complexity.

Vineyard coordinates: 33˚ 50’ 38.02”S 138 38’ 52.66”E

Elevation: 506m