Grosset Gaia 2023

Jeffrey established this isolated, windswept vineyard in 1986 at 560 metres elevation—the highest in Clare Valley. That vines survive here at all is remarkable; that they produce exceptional fruit is something of a marvel.

Two hectares of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc cling to hard red rock, where rocky outcrops break through the earth like ancient bones. Close-planted at 3,000 vines per hectare, each vine yields just two kilograms—less than two bottles of wine.

Jeffrey named the vineyard ‘Gaia’ after scientist James Lovelock’s theory that earth is a single living organism of immense complexity, dependent on full species diversity to remain balanced and restore itself. This ecological philosophy, absorbed from Lovelock’s work, has profoundly influenced Jeffrey’s approach to all subsequent plantings.

Here, at the edge of what’s possible, the vines teach lessons about resilience, symbiosis, and the delicate balance between struggle and reward.