Situated in the historic Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Tyrrell’s defines its winemaking approach with three core words: Family, Authenticity, and Quality. As a fifth-generation, family-owned winery, the team considers their land their greatest asset and responsibility. They pursued Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certification because they firmly believe that caring for the environment is essential to protecting and improving their vineyards for future generations.
Fittingly, Tyrrell’s designated sustainability superpower is Legacy and Community. By combining responsible environmental practices with a steadfast commitment to maintaining outstanding quality, they are ensuring their vineyards continue to thrive and support the local community.
Their sustainability journey has been defined by steady, practical progress over several years. In 2017, the winery replaced all its lighting with low-energy LED alternatives, which delivered a 10% reduction in total electricity use. In 2022, they commissioned a comprehensive external energy audit to identify, cost, and prioritise major energy-saving projects across the site. This dedication culminated in achieving full certification under the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia programme by 2024, and the trust mark is now proudly displayed on their estate-produced wines
Family, Authenticity, & Quality.
Much of the work Tyrrell’s does to reduce its environmental impact happens quietly behind the scenes. The team generates solar energy, minimises plastic use, actively avoids harsh chemicals in both the vineyard and winery, and carefully monitors greenhouse gas emissions to continually improve.
In the vineyard, they maintain a permanent sward, or cover crop, to feed the soil microbes that deliver vital nutrients to the vines. This greenery attracts beneficial insects that prey on vineyard pests, naturally reducing the need for insecticides. Furthermore, in 2022, they purchased a specialised undervine cultivator to mechanically remove weeds without relying on herbicides. In a beautifully innovative move, instead of using a conventional fence, the team planted a living hedge. This natural barrier harbours beneficial insects through the winter when the grapevines have dropped their leaves, providing year-round companion planting to support the local ecosystem.
This careful stewardship makes the estate a haven for local wildlife. Kangaroos are the most common animal sighted in the vineyard, serving as a special reminder of the connection between the vines and the natural environment. Recently, the team also spotted a peregrine falcon utilizing a predator perch installed beside Mother’s Block. These perches were specifically designed to attract eagles, hawks, and falcons into the vineyard, naturally deterring smaller birds that would otherwise feed on the valuable grapes.
For visitors exploring the Hunter Valley, Tyrrell’s offers a highly exclusive, by-appointment cellar door offering known as the Sacred Sites experience. Priced at $450 per person, this 2.5-hour private tour accommodates groups of two to eight people. Guests enjoy a private tour of the historic winery and surrounding vineyards, followed by a tasting of rare Sacred Sites wines sourced from ancient estate vineyards, all accompanied by a beautiful cheese and charcuterie plate.
If you are looking for the perfect way to spend a dry afternoon in the region, the Tyrrell’s team has a fantastic local recommendation. Pick up a charcuterie platter from Smelly Cheeses, grab a bottle of Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Semillon, and take a drive up Pokolbin Mountain Road. Once you reach the lookout atop Pokolbin Mountain, you can enjoy your local picnic alongside sweeping, spectacular vistas across the entire Hunter Valley wine region.
