Buying a dead cherry patch in South Australia's Riverland and converting it into a vineyard, may not sound like the best career move. However, for my guest today bold decisions like that have dominated his winemaking journey. The first-generation farmer has been making wine for two decades now. Ricca Terra Wines (meaning 'rich earth' in Italian) has found the key to success with carefully selected grape varieties, innovative low alcohol options and in a surprise, even to himself, cask wine. To learn more Ashley Ratcliff of Ricca Terra joins me now to discuss:
- Ashely's favourite place in the Riverland of South Australia.
- The great story of how Ashley came to live there and the condition of his land when he purchased it.
- The beginnings of the property and the decision Ashley is most proud of.
- Demonstrating innovation in his ability to adapt depending on the global climate.
- Ashley has more than 50 grape varieties, including Portuguese grapes and shares why he has taken this approach in the vineyard.
- Riverland in South Australia is hot and dry, and by taking the weather into consideration, Ashley has proven that this region can be used for vineyards.
- Consumer tastes are so important and, the huge market for lower alcohol options.
- Ashley shares his surprising business choice to launch cask wines and, some of the challenges.
- Ashley has the accolades to back up his success - in 2019 he was awarded a five-star rating in the 2020 James Halliday Wine Companion and again in 2021. He was also listed in the Top 10 upcoming wineries in Australia.
- Ashley is an advocate for the industry and is co-chair of the Riverland Wine Association.
- With China imposing tariffs during COVID and more recently an oversupply, Ashley shares the 'yellow balloon' he is focusing on right now.
- What Ashely loves most about life on the land.
- The most common misconception about the wine industry.
- The unexpected aspects of working in this area.
- Ashely's ultimate dream for the future.
We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.
Links:
Angie Asimus
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Ricca Terra Wines
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