What is a Wine Grower?
A Wine Grower refers to a person who both grows their grapes, and also makes wine from their grapes. The French word Vigneron is often used to describe this type of producer. Both terms refer to the same role..
Roles in the Wine Industry:
- Growers (Grape Growers):
These individuals specialise in cultivating grapes but typically do not make wine themselves. They sell their fruit to winemakers or wineries. - Winemakers/Wineries (Non-Estate Producers):
These entities may not own vineyards or grow their own grapes. Instead, they purchase grapes, grape juice, or even finished wine from various sources to blend, bottle, and sell under their own label. Their focus is often on the vinification and branding. - Wine Grower (Vigneron):
A vigneron grows their own grapes and makes wine from their vineyard. The term emphasises a holistic philosophy—where vineyard care, sustainability, and site expression are integral to the winemaking process. A vigneron is intimately involved in every stage, from vine to bottle, with a deep commitment to quality and terroir.
Openness & Transparency
At Independent Wine Grower, we champion transparency and openness, inviting winemakers to
share the story behind their wines, their vineyards, and their unique practices. Whether it’s
through engaging conversations, informative websites, or beautifully crafted marketing
materials, winemakers are encouraged to connect directly with consumers. For a more
personal touch, emailing is often the best way to reach out, as winemakers are typically
immersed in their vineyards or busy at work in the winery.
Winemakers who are already exporting their exceptional wines to Europe, or are planning to,
have embraced the continent’s stringent new regulations, which mandate full disclosure of all ingredients and additives used in wine production. These regulations surpass the domestic
labelling standards in Australia, reflecting Europe’s commitment to addressing the growing
consumer demand for cleaner, healthier choices.
Similarly, vignerons who follow traditional winemaking methods, maintaining full control
over their vineyards and fruit quality, often adopt a minimalist approach in the winery. With
the majority of the hard work done in the vineyard, they believe in allowing the wine to
express its true essence through minimal intervention. The result is wines that are pure,
natural, and a true reflection of the land from which they originate.
If you’re ever unsure or can’t find the information you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach
out directly to the winemakers. They’ll be more than happy to assist you and provide the
answers you need. Their passion for their craft and commitment to transparency means
they’re always eager to share their knowledge and ensure you feel confident in your wine
experience.
Our History
Independent Wine Grower: A Global Commitment to Craftsmanship and Terroir
Independent Wine Grower was founded by two individuals united by a passion for
handcrafted, estate-grown single-vineyard wines and traditional winemaking methods that
require minimal intervention. Above all, they have a deep respect for the land that nurtures
the grapes, the belief that exceptional wines are made in the vineyard, driven by the concept
of terroir.
While the Australian chapter is relatively new, it is part of a global network that spans France, Italy, Germany, Hungary, Portugal, Greece just to mention a few.
These countries are all part of CEVI, the European Confederation of Independent Winegrowers, an organisation representing and defending the interests of Independent Winegrowers at the European level. *
This collective is committed to preserving the integrity of centuries-old
winemaking traditions while embracing innovation and excellence. Despite Australia’s
younger wine industry, its winemakers share the same dedication and craftsmanship as their
European counterparts, ensuring that Australian wines stand proudly among the world’s
finest.
* Independent Wine Growers – Australia is not a member or part of CEVI.
The connection to Vigneron Indépendant France began with a powerful realisation—a logo of
a person carrying a wine barrel on their shoulders, on a bottle of French wine that symbolised
a shared journey of small, family-owned wine producers one defined by struggle, dedication,
and a steadfast commitment to purpose. The encounter inspired the creation of Vigneron
Independent Australia, with the French chapter’s guidance helping shape the values of
authenticity and craftsmanship that drives the Australian movement.
Though the founders of Independent Wine Grower prefer to remain unnamed, their
shared commitment to supporting small producers and preserving traditional winemaking
practices is at the heart of the movement. A French girl and an Italian boy, united by their
passion for wines that reflect the unique terroir of each vineyard, established a platform to
showcase authentic, sustainable wines. This movement celebrates small-scale winemaking,
rooted in terroir and environmental responsibility, while offering consumers a chance to
discover wines from independent producers who uphold these values.
