The soils are predominantly terra rosa soils (over 80%). These soils are shallow with red-brown earth over hard capped limestone. They tend to produce deeply coloured red wines with good structure and backbone that show great capacity for ageing.
The Estate vineyards are predominantly Shiraz, planted as early as 1919. The variety balance grown at Coriole is 65% Shiraz, 10% Sangiovese, 5% Chenin and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Other varieties are Fiano, Grenache, Barbera, Montepulciano, Merlot and Semillon. There are in total 25 different vineyards from 90 years old to 3 years old.
Coriole manages most vineyards where fruit is sourced. It also has vineyards in the sub-regions of Blewitt Springs and Willunga. This year the first moves have been made to organic viticulture. This programme is set to expand in following years.
Sustainability
Coriole has a commitment to sustainability at many levels. For many years we have been working to regenerate native vegetation areas on the property. We do not use mains water; all water on the property is recycled, rain and bore. Viticulture and wine-making processes are achieved with minimal intervention.
Our organic vegetable garden grows produce for the restaurant. We are increasingly interested in bio management of the soil with compost teas and green manures.
We also take a keen interest in broader sustainability issues such as the state of our unique region and the impact of urban sprawl, infrastructure for the expanding population and town planning in and around McLaren Vale and neighbouring townships.