Winemaker: Jasper Button
Where: Basket Range, South Australia, Australia
Size: 70 ha farm & bushland, 5 ha of vineyards
Main Varieties: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Nebbiolo, Chenin Blanc & Cabernet Franc
Viticulture: Regenerative farming and biodynamics
Quick note: 2nd generation farmers, 70 ha of farm & bushland, 30+ year old vineyards, hands-on organic and regenerative
Working as second generation farmers, siblings Jasper and Sophie Button are caretakers of around 70 hectares of land; farmland, bushland and around 5 hectares of vineyards. Initially planted in the 90’s by three families (hence the Commune name), the classic varieties of the time are represented; Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Nebbiolo, Cabernet Franc, alongside the most recently planted Chenin Blanc!
The farm ‘Fernglen’ lies about a 40-min-drive east of Adelaide in the state of South Australia. Climbing up an escarpment, into the Adelaide Hills and dipping into the appropriately named Basket Range, the climate can change dramatically. Sitting at a minimum of 300m above sea level, the elevation means a much cooler climate, even during hot Australian summers, and a higher rainfall than surrounding low-lying areas. A long time hands-on organic farm, the family is following biodynamic styles, incorporating that into their already responsible regenerative farming methods.
After many years of figuring out his winemaking style, Jasper has settled into both knowing his land intimately, but also crafting wines that beautifully represent this gorgeous slice of earth. An honest and funny approach to life and work has translated into each cuvée.
The winery is placed at the base of a little gully, surrounded by vineyards, so the distance to travel makes it extremely reactive for picking. Often reds are picked and then a certain percentage destemmed, gentle punch downs, and élevage in a range of vessels, from stainless and fibreglass to both small and large oak formats. Whites play often with gentle maceration and whole-bunch pressing.
After walking these vineyards, and spending time in the landscape, these wines just absolutely sing of the land they come from. Tasting these wines really gives a glimpse into a terroir and vintage that Jasper, alongside his wife Emma and two small children, have beautifully created.
