PAXTON


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Paxton is Australia's leading producer of biodynamically farmed grapes, managing 300 acres of vines spread across the diverse terroirs of McLaren Vale.The company was founded in 1979 by renowned viticulturist David Paxton, although the family did not release the first Paxton wines until 2000. David, who does a very convincing impersonation of the crusty Aussie farmer, was not completely convinced by biodynamics at first, famously telling a top journalist 'biodynamics is the biggest heap of bullshit I've ever heard'. But like so many devoted practitioners, he became convinced by the superior results that he observed in the field, if not by the metaphysical spirituality. Paxton is based at Landcross Farm, established in the 1840's and one of McLaren Vale's oldest farms. The original limestone buildings have been lovingly preserved, and the farm is a showcase for the biodynamic approach to managing a farm as a totally integrated unit. The Paxton's keep a small herd of substance-free cattle, who have a simple but absolutely crucial role to play in the production of the biodynamic composts used in the vineyards. The winery's minimalist label is derived from the historic Wool Bale stencil originally used on the farm. Paxton's wide range of wines reflects the belief that the basis of farming is soil health and the basis of wine quality is balance in the vineyard combined with simple non-interventionist winemaking, so that grapes are of exceptional quality, combining vivid varietal expression and natural regional diversity. And perhaps most importantly, they reflect the commitment of an honest hard working farmer to provide the best possible quality at the lowest possible price.