Rosnay Organic Wines

Rosnay Organic Wines is a family-owned winery located in Canowindra, New South Wales, Australia. Established in 1997, it has become a pioneer in organic and biodynamic viticulture in the region. Here's what wine lovers should know about visiting this unique winery:

Location and Setting

Situated in the Central Ranges of NSW, Rosnay is just 8 kilometers from the town of Canowindra. The winery is part of a community-title development called Rivers Road Organic Farms, offering visitors a glimpse into sustainable farming practices.

Organic and Biodynamic Practices

Rosnay has been committed to organic farming since its inception. The Statham family converted their farm to organic and biodynamic methods in 1997, focusing on creating living soil to produce high-quality grapes. They use innovative techniques such as grazing sheep under the vines and orchards, planting trees, and making compost on the farm.

Wines and Production

Preservative-Free and Natural Wines

Rosnay specializes in preservative-free and natural wines. Since 2020, they have stopped using sulfites altogether, and from 2022, all their wines are fermented with wild yeast. The winery uses modern cooling systems and ancient amphoras to create wines that showcase regional and varietal characteristics.

Varietals

Visitors can expect to taste a range of wines, including:

• Chardonnay

• Shiraz

• Mourvedre

• Grenache

• Vermentino

• Sparkling wines

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door at Rosnay is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, offering visitors the opportunity to taste their organic wines. For a more comprehensive experience, wine lovers can book tasting packages or farm tours, which typically last around 2 hours and are led by knowledgeable family members or staff.

Beyond Wine

Olive Oil and Figs

In addition to wine, Rosnay produces artisanal olive oil and figs. They have 2,500 olive trees planted in 1998-2000, primarily Corregiola, Mediterranean, and Kalamata varieties. The olive oil is cold-pressed and bottled on the farm without filtration. They also grow eight varieties of figs, including the prized White Adriatic.

Sustainable Architecture

The winery, cellar door, and farm houses are built from super-insulated, natural straw bales and powered by a solar microgrid, showcasing the family's commitment to sustainability.

Accommodation

For those wanting to extend their visit, Rosnay offers farmstay and glamping accommodation options in the original farmhouse and in the olive grove.

Events and Activities

Rosnay hosts various events throughout the year, including:

• Art exhibitions in the cellar door gallery

• Concerts

• Film nights

• Craft markets

Wine lovers should check the winery's event calendar or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about upcoming activities.

Awards and Recognition

The Statham family's dedication to organic farming has earned them several accolades, including:

• The inaugural NSW Organic Pioneers' Award (2012)

• NSW Landcare Award (2015)

• Winestate Organic Wine of the Year award (2016)

Visiting Rosnay Organic Wines offers wine enthusiasts not just a tasting experience, but an immersion into sustainable winemaking practices and a family's dedication to working harmoniously with nature. The combination of preservative-free wines, organic farming methods, and beautiful countryside makes Rosnay a unique destination for those interested in the intersection of wine and environmental stewardship.