With its particular island climate, pristine environment, sandstone soil, and distinct insect life, French Island provides unique elements that contribute to the adventurous character of the French Island Vineyards’ wines.
The old saying that wine is made in the vineyard certainly applies here.
French Island Vineyards was established in 1998 and is the only commercial vineyard on French Island.
Ideally situated, the vineyard grows in a north and east sloping valley which is well protected from the strong coastal winds by the national park forest which borders it on two sides.
The soil, of sandstone origin, is instrumental in shaping the grapevines to produce a balanced level of vigour and yield. The vines are hand pruned and the fruit is hand picked at optimum ripeness and flavour.
The wines – pinot gris, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz – produced exclusively from grapes grown by French Island Vineyards in its 3.5 hectare vineyard, benefit from the crisp, clean air of the southern ocean.
Pinot gris is the main planting at French Island Vineyards. Smaller plantings of chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz complete the range of French Island Vineyards’ wines. These varieties have been chosen as they are best suited to the cool Maritime climate and conditions of French Island.
