Darrell Kruger loves worms. For him, they are a key measure of success and symbolise his assertion that great wine starts not at the winery, but in the vineyard.
What do worms have to do with good wine? According to Heggies Vineyard viticulturist Darrell Kruger, more than you might think.
A strong proponent of working with mother nature in the vineyard, Darrell arguably knows more about Eden Valley worms than anyone else.
It was 15 years ago when Darrell first picked up the shovel to dig for worms in the vineyard.
A natural approach to vineyard management has ensured the number of worms in Heggies Vineyard has steadily risen. Darrell has dug many holes over the years, checking the worm count as a measure of soil health. A dozen worms or more is good. Any less and something has to change.
At 550 metres above sea level, Heggies is a mean place to grow vines. It’s high, cool and dry, the soil lean and hungry. But, with his soil a healthy haven for worms, Darrell Kruger can rest easy.