Biodynamic Farming at Brocha Vineyards

Wines of Elgin is proud to count two organic producers among its members. The first, Elgin Ridge, was pioneered by Marion and Brian Smith, who poured countless investments and passion into their vineyards. They had to sell it for personal reasons, but luckily, it was bought by Radford Dale. The second farm is Brocha, marketed under the Iona umbrella brand, and owned and run by Rozy Gunn.

Brocha is an organic wine farm with a biodynamic and Demeter certification. This is an acknowledgment of all the dedication and hard work by Rozy and her team on this 35-hectare farm, with 10 hectares dedicated to vineyards, 17 to fynbos, and the rest to pasture. Everything works in harmony to ensure no pesticides or herbicides are used. "Herbicides kill terroir," Rozy believes. Within the very rich cover crops, each plant adds nutritional elements, such as the peas and legumes that fix nitrogen and cereals that add carbon. It also creates a new ecosystem. Rozy has a special bond with all the animals that contribute to the biodynamic agriculture. Her small, devoted team shares her passion.

Photos: Christine Lundy