Brokenwood Wines Wins Royal Agricultural Society President's Medal

Brokenwood Wines in New South Wales Hunter Valley received the 19th President's Medal from the Royal Agricultural Society. The award recognizes the winery's conversion of grape stems, skins and seeds into compost used to fertilize its vines. The company produces 90,000 cases annually and has been a member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.

It uses lightweight glass for 70 percent of its bottles and applies practices such as moisture probes, mid-cover cropping and reduced chemical use.

Chief winemaker Stuart Hordern said the industry has faced a tough five to ten years. He stated that declining demand has created a stockpile of unsold wine and a surplus of unharvested grapes. Hordern said the medal helps morale among staff. He added that small improvements in practices can support the industry's future, noting changes at the winery took place over a decade.

Judges assessed environmental practices, financial health, community investment, governance, resilience and industry leadership. Judge Simon Marnie and fellow judge Kate Lorimer-Ward conducted an on-site inspection in February. Lorimer-Ward said sustainability at Brokenwood is structural rather than a marketing position.

She stated it involves looking after people and communities, protecting the land, and maintaining long-term business strength. This year's other finalists were Mandole Orchard, Marionette, Norco Co-Operative Limited, Stockyard Beef and the Yoghurt Shop.