Bruce and Sue Armstrong, Lonepine Vineyard, Waikerie [Riverland] SA

Lone Pine Vineyard is a 37 hectare property owned by Bruce and Sue Armstrong. Situated 5 kms from Waikerie on the River Murray. Vine plantings consist of 4.5 Ha Shiraz, 1.4 Ha Mataro,1.4 Ha Gordo and recently planted 2.5 Ha Chardonnay. The remainder of the property is a mix of open paddocks and natural scrub. We run a small herd of South African Boer goats which is a handy management tool in an organic system.

Vines are all drip irrigated. Irrigation water is pumped from the Murray river as private irrigators. Drip irrigation enables the most efficient use of water. All vines are closely monitored and water applied to maintain vine health while controlling vine vigour. Yields are deliberately moderated to maximize quality production.

The Riverland is one of the best areas in the world to grow grapes organically as the annual rainfall is approx 250 mm) . All vines are grown with an open canopy, hand pruned each year to maximize sunlight and air flow penetration of the vine. This reduces the risk of disease and helps to maximize the intensity of flavor in our fruit. Fruit is harvested by machine in the evening and delivered to the winery at Langhorne Creek. Young vines are hand picked initially.

Bruce and Sue are also WWOOF hosts. WWOOF is a scheme run in many countries and works well in Australia. Willing Workers On Organic Farms are a great help in pruning, picking and weeding the vineyard. We also grow organic veggies and often need a hand during picking times. 2003 saw our vines pruned by 2 Japanese and a French WWOOFer. The cultural exchange is interesting and enjoyable. Armstrong machine harvest is a night photograph of the machine harvester. Fruit is generally harvested at night to maximise quality.

Property Photos



Top Left: 2004 Shiraz Grapes of the mature Shiraz vines on Armstrong's property before harvest.
Top Right: Night photograph of the Machine Harvester.

Top: Canadian and German Backpackers hand picking at the vineyard.