Location

Located in far north western Victoria, the township of Merbein is located close to the border of NSW and SA. This junction of 3 states optimises Peter and Helen’s ability to promote their produce.

The Cropping Season

The cropping season begins in late December, where the sweet yellow fresh Menindee table grape is harvested. Being the first variety for the season it is relished by our customer base. Following in late January, we produce a variety of black currants, a small sweet black grape, which is destined for cereal boxes and biscuits and is a favourite of small children.

Our main crop which follows in February are sultanas. They are picked in 10kg small black buckets and placed on a drying rack to dry for up to 3 months. Peter continues the tried and true old fashioned process of hand picked and rack drying as opposed to mechanically harvested methods, as he believes this damages the fruit quality. And if the truth be known, he loves the atmosphere created at picking time especially morning tea time otherwise known as smoko where all the pickers sit around the tractor and trailer and enjoy a variety of Helen’s sandwiches and fruit cake while discussing tales; some taller than others.

It’s hard to believe that such a small fruit can take so long to break down in the hot Mildura sun, which often reaches 45C. The drying process takes approximately two months to go from grape to sultana. A chemically produced (sultana), will break down in 10-14 days. Though they look almost identical, the flavour of the organic is far superior and naturally far healthier to the consumer.

Moscato

All Australian Organics also grow Moscato grapes which is turned into dried raisons, fresh table grapes known as Muscat Gordo, which have a delicious unusual acquired taste, and also as a wine grape known as Moscato, which is becoming increasingly popular at home and in many trendy wine bars and boutique restaurants.

Post Season

During the dormant months of winter, the vines are pruned with last years deadwood removed and the new canes rolled on for the next year’s crop. Over 10,000 vines are individually assessed by Peter, who oversees the process to maximise crop quality, this he does by selecting the strongest canes on each vine. This gives longevity to the vine and a better result for fruiting the next season.

Passion

Peter and Helen love the industry they are in and are now producing a small snack pack that parents can put into their children’s lunch boxes to give them a healthy alternative and a great solution to the daily chore of preparing school snacks.