Sustainability
Protecting our soil. Growing our future
Our belief has always been that great wines start in the vineyard. Since planting our first vines in 1982, we have learnt how deeply soil health influences fruit quality and, in turn, the wines we make. After recognising in the early 2000s that conventional sprays had depleted our soils, we changed course. Today, we farm with a minimal intervention philosophy, using no synthetic sprays or fertilisers and instead building soil vitality through inter row cropping and more than 400 cubic metres of estate made compost each year. This ongoing commitment to healthier soils, greater biodiversity and balanced ecosystems continues to shape wines that express the purity of place.
In March 2026, our long term commitment to sustainable farming was recognised with certification for both our vineyard and winery.
Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is the national sustainability program for grape growers and winemakers, with certification awarded following a rigorous independent audit of environmental, social and economic practices.
Certification is ongoing, and we are grateful to be part of an industry that is prioritising the environment while giving consumers a clear and trusted way to identify wine businesses committed to these values. Read more here about what certification means for our business.
Soil
Our 400-cubic-metre compost heap - made from grape skins, hay, wood chips, and manure - is our key to sustainable farming. It restores the soil microbes in the vineyard, boosting vine health and enhancing fruit flavour year after year.
Water
We use water sparingly thanks to deep-rooted vines, improved soils, and a recycled A-class water system that supports our vineyard and gardens with minimal waste.
Waste
Waste management may not be glamorous, but at Crittenden, our EPA-compliant wastewater treatment and connection to the town system ensure we process winery waste responsibly and with minimal environmental impact.
Power
Since installing solar panels across all buildings in 2017, Crittenden has operated entirely on solar power - often generating excess energy - and this remains a key part of our emissions reduction efforts tracked from 2023.
INTERNATIONAL recognition
Crittenden was named the overall platinum winner of the BRIT International Sustainable Wine-growing Competition in 2020, ahead of a high-calibre field of wine producers from around the world. The award recognised Crittenden’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and connection to its community.