Our Sheep: The Vineyard's Winter Workforce and Soil Builders
When our grapevines settle in for their winter slumber, a different kind of magic begins in the vineyard. Our flock of sheep steps in as an indispensable part of our regenerative system, transforming the dormant season into a period of active soil building and natural vineyard management.
These intelligent, four-legged partners are far more than just grazers. As they roam freely between the rows, their gentle hooves provide a natural aeration, lightly disturbing the soil surface. This helps to incorporate organic matter from our cover crops and stimulate the incredible microbial life beneath our feet – essentially, a living, subtle tillage that enhances soil structure and water infiltration.
But perhaps their most significant contribution is the continuous, balanced fertility they provide. Their manure and urine are a powerhouse of biologically active nutrients, distributed evenly across the vineyard floor. This natural nutrient cycling feeds our soil microbes, builds organic matter, and reduces our reliance on external fertilizers. It’s a closed-loop system where the animals nourish the land that, in turn, nourishes our vines.
By grazing down the cover crops and vineyard floor vegetation, our sheep also help manage weeds and prepare the vineyard for the coming spring, reducing the need for mechanical mowing and other labor-intensive tasks. This integration of livestock enhances biodiversity, fosters a more resilient ecosystem, and ultimately contributes to the unique character and health of our wines.
Our sheep are a prime example of how working with nature, creates a more vibrant, productive, and economically sound vineyard. They embody our commitment to a holistic approach, proving that healthy animals, healthy soil, and healthy grapes go hand-in-hand.