outlook. The health of the soil is the fundamental factor, because yields, quality and character of the vintage underpin regional identity. In 1865 Dr Jules Guyot wrote in his Culture of the Vine and Winemaking that ‘when a soil is naturally fertile and produces remunerative crops, it attracts, fixes and sustains, by itself, a numerous population.’ The development of fertilisers, chemicals and tractorisation during the 20th century resulted in the economical production of crops but often degraded the natural fertility of soils. Although intentions were good, the mindset was generally connected to a balance sheet. But, throughout the 2000s, a strong environmental awareness has developed. The threat of urbanisation, drought and biosecurity kickstarted a new outlook that is now influencing the way consumers perceive identity, terroir and origin. Present-day thinking builds on the efforts of previous generations and the handed-down knowledge and experience of living in the Barossa landscape. The concept of terroir has never been more relevant than today. Although extreme weather and other threats promise to create challenges in the future, the way vignerons care for their vineyards and make their wine is now becoming the most important factor when consumers choose their wines.
Barossa 2022
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