Our Home on Kangaroo Island:
A Cool-Climate Paradise.

Australia's third-largest island, Kangaroo Island, is a truly unique viticultural landscape. It's separated from mainland South Australia by 15 km of ocean, known as the Backstairs Passage, and Investigator Strait borders its dramatic coastline to the north, and the powerful Southern Ocean to the south. This geographical isolation gives rise to a distinctly cool, maritime climate – a rare and protected environment for growing exceptional grapes.

Renowned worldwide for its immense natural beauty, pristine environment, and abundant native wildlife, Kangaroo Island's clean natural environment and unspoiled character inspire and enable all of the region’s finest produce, particularly our wines.

Almost half of Kangaroo Island is preserved or protected land. At The Islander Estate Vineyards, we're proud to be custodians of nearly 300 hectares of natural heritage, actively protecting native bushland and biodiversity within our estate.

The Perfect Climate for Fine Wine

Kangaroo Island's winemaking success is deeply rooted in its distinct Mediterranean climate, characterised by a profound maritime influence. The constant cool breezes from the Southern Ocean moderate temperatures, creating a longer, slower ripening season than many other regions in South Australia.

This extended hang time allows grapes to develop intense flavour complexity and retain crucial natural acidity, essential for the elegant, medium-bodied wines we craft.

Our diverse soils, ranging from sandy loams to clay over limestone, also contribute unique characteristics to our different varietals, adding further depth and complexity to the wines.

A Rich History, A New Wine Story

The island's rich history is reflected in its intriguing mix of English and French place names, a legacy of pioneering explorers like British Matthew Flinders, who named it 'Kanguroo Island,' and Frenchman Nicolas Baudin, who meticulously mapped much of its coastline.

Beyond its wild nature, the island boasts a rich history. It was home to Australia’s first free settled colony, established by sealers and whalers. Later, the island’s enduring farming heartland took root in the aftermath of World War II, with returned servicemen and their families laying the groundwork for the fertile land, including the estate which The Islander Estate Vineyards now calls home.

Today, the community of ‘Islanders’ remain deeply connected to the island’s heritage and natural environment, embodying the independence and ingenuity of its first settlers.

This respect for the land, combined with the enormous, untapped viticultural potential, particularly its cool, maritime climate and diverse soils ideal for elegant, age-worthy wines, captivated Jacques Lurton in 1997. This unique promise drew him half a world away from his native Bordeaux, inspiring him to establish The Islander Estate Vineyards and apply his French craftsmanship to his stunning estate at the heart of Kangaroo Island.

Share in our little piece of this beautiful paradise.