Basic Info

In 2003 Ashley & Holly Ratcliff purchased a small 8ha vineyard in the Riverland, South Australia. The vineyard was called Ricca Terra (Italian for Rich Earth). The soils found throughout the vineyard are red earth over limestone, which have the reputation for being very fertile. The vineyard purchased was planted to Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Ruby Cabernet and Sultana. The Ratcliff's are some of the Riverlands most forward-thinking viticultural minds. After leaving Yalumba to set up his own Riverland vineyard, Ashley began investigating the potential for 'obscure' alternative varieties in his chosen region. 'Mediterranean' varieties that retain acidity in the heat, such as Fiano and Arinto have struck a cord, as well as Nero d'Avola, Negroamaro and Tinta Barocca which thrive in warmer climes. They have made a name for themselves initially as the source for many of Australia's most well-known 'next gen' wines focused on these alternative varieties. Producers from hours away in McLaren Vale sought out the fastidious farming of the Ratcliff's and their selection of 'unusual' grapes. Today Ricca Terra’s spread of vineyards is in excess of 80ha, and one of the largest growers of climate adaptive grape varieties in South Australia, as well as focusing on the growth of their own 'estate' wines. The Ricca Terra label showcases these interesting varieties and their suitability to the changing (read, warming) climate. Whether straight varietal wines or creative blends, every wine is deliciously approachable and superb value for money.