Ricca Terra

In 2003 Ashley and Holly Ratcliff purchased a small 8-hectare vineyard in the Riverland, South Australia. The vineyard was named Ricca Terra (Italian for Rich Earth). The soils found throughout the vineyard are very fertile red earth over limestone. Ricca Terra’s core philosophy is to align climatic conditions with alternate grape varieties to allow for sustainable farming and crafting of premium quality and vegan friendly wines.

The vision to evolve a traditionally planted vineyard into one that could adapt to extreme climatic changes goes beyond grape variety selection. The adoption of drought tolerant rootstocks, water saving mulches and new viticultural techniques and technology allow Ricca Terra to grow grapes and make premium wine with minimal inputs and a limited environmental footprint. Today, Ricca Terra’s spread of vineyards is in excess of 70Ha. They have over 30 different varieties planted and are one of the largest producers of climate adaptive grape varieties in South Australia.

Ashley Ratcliff has always been passionate about the wine industry. His vision to create a sustainable future for Ricca Terra has resulted in him winning many accolades including Innovative Vineyard of the Year (Young Guns of Wine) Gourmet Traveller Viticulturalist of the Year, Riverland Winemaker of the Year & Best Wineries of the Region by James Halliday.

The ‘Soldier’s Land’ range is a project close to Ashley’s heart. These wines are made from vineyards established during the Soldiers Settlement Scheme post WW1 & WW2. He has saved these ancient vines and donated a portion of proceeds from the sale of these wines to the RSL.

“We’re challenging the norm in a region known for bulk production. And we are showing that the Riverland is a premium winegrowing region.” – Ashley Ratcliff

“If you’re looking for something different, and interesting, look no further. This winery is one of the first wineries that I would recommend. It is because every wine in the (well-priced) range here makes you stop and think and appreciate it for its charm, its alternative flavour profile, its confident drinkability. This here is a champion of alternative varieties.” Campbell Mattinson, Halliday Wine Companion