By James Atkinson
Angove Family Winemakers has added Sauvignon Blanc to the successful Angove Organic range, which now includes four different varietals.
Initially launched as a Shiraz Cabernet and Chardonnay pair, the first four vintages of Angove Organic wines sold out in record time, according to the winery, which added an Organic Merlot to the line-up in 2011.
"Fast forward another two years and with more vineyards now certified as Organic we are pleased to be adding Australia's most popular varietal, Sauvignon Blanc, to the range," Angove said.
The grapes for the newly released 2013 Organic Sauvignon Blanc, 2012 Organic Chardonnay 2012 Organic Shiraz Cabernet and 2012 Organic Merlot have been sourced from certified organic growers in McLaren Vale and the Riverland as well as Angove's own vineyards.
"The climate in both regions is perfect for organic grape growing with extremely low disease pressure and low vigour soils minimising the need for fungicide and herbicide use," Angove said.
Angove said the conversion of the family's own vineyard holdings to organic is well underway with more areas and varieties to come on stream and made into wine as demand continues to grow.
"This includes the Angove Warboys vineyard in the dress circle of McLaren Vale which is certified as both organic and biodynamic," the company said.
Angove chief winemaker Tony Ingle said organic viticulture is the best way to improve soil quality and optimise water use, which creates stronger, healthier vines and better fruit.
"It is more expensive but we believe it makes a better tasting wine and, more importantly, improves the environment for our next generation of winemakers," he said.
All wines in the Angove Organic range have a RRP of $14.95.