Phylloxera & Biosecurity

The South Australian wine industry enjoys a very special advantage. The absence of a small but dangerous vine pest called Phylloxera means that region can still grow grape vines on their own roots, unlike most of the winegrowing regions of the world. In McLaren Vale most of the vineyards, including our oldest vines, are grown this way.

The McLaren Vale Phylloxera & Biosecurity Committee works with Vinehealth Australia – an industry advocate in vine biosecurity – to develop programs, practices and information to support and enforce the Phylloxera and Grape Industry Act 1995 ensuring McLaren Vale’s vineyards and heritage is protected.

Resources from Vinehealth Australia:

• Industry resources – you’ll find downloadable posters, sign order forms, FAQs and more resources for cellar door and tourism staff here
• Map – download a digital version of the Phylloxera Management Zones map here
• ‘Who’s hitchhiking with you’ video - click here
• ‘Please don’t walk amongst our vines’ video - click here
• Biosecurity wording for tourist-facing promotional materials - click here

For further information on Phylloxera and Australia’s grapevine biosecurity practices, visit the Vinehealth Australia website.