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Bio
Established in 2002 by winemakers Sven Bruchfeld and Gonzalo Muñoz, Polkura focuses on producing high-quality Syrah wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The name "Polkura" means "yellow stone" in the Mapuche language, referencing the area's yellow granite soils. These decomposed granite soils, combined with clay, contribute to the wines' minerality, body, and structure.
Situated approximately 30 kilometers from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyard benefits from a Mediterranean climate with significant marine influence, moderated by the coastal mountain range.
Since 2009, Polkura has implemented a dry farming project known as "Secano," cultivating 2 hectares without irrigation, later expanding to 5 hectares. This approach emphasizes minimal intervention, relying solely on natural rainfall to express the purest form of the terroir.
To optimize water retention, vines are planted on flat terrain with clay-rich soils and at a lower density of 2,500 plants per hectare. The Gobelet training system is employed, with shoots tied to individual stakes to protect the fragile Syrah vines from breakage.
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More Kelp Blue Ambassadors
Isabella Hof
Annelies Hof is co-owner of a progressive arable farming business in the Netherlands. Together with her family, she is building on the work of previous generations, who established a strong position in onion production and trading.
Today, the business comprises two operations: an arable farm and an onion grading and packing facility. On the 200-hectare farm, onions and flax are the main crops, alongside wheat, barley, sugar beet, potatoes and grass seed. The onions grown on the farm, as well as those sourced from other growers, are supplied to both export markets and Dutch consumers through retail channels.
Growing pressure on soil health and the impacts of climate change are increasingly affecting crop yields. At the same time, weed, disease and pest pressure is rising, both on the farm itself and among its network of growers. In response to these challenges, Annelies attended courses at De Oorsprong and Agrosymbio and began experimenting with regenerative farming practices.
Annelies is committed to improving soil health, strengthening the resilience of the farming system and building a future-proof agricultural business. She also believes it is important to actively involve other growers in the transition towards more sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
Joost de Willebois
Joost de Willebois is the founder and owner of Domaine J. de Villebois, a family-run winery in France's Loire Valley.
Originally from the Netherlands, Joost descends from a French lineage dating back to 1180. In 2004, he and his wife, Miguela, acquired a 10-hectare vineyard in Mareuil-sur-Cher, marking the beginning of their winemaking journey.
They focused on producing Sauvignon Blanc, aiming to become specialists in this varietal within the Loire region. Over the years, the domaine expanded its reach across key appellations like Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, and Menetou-Salon.
Joost transitioned from a career in finance to dedicate himself fully to winemaking, emphasizing sustainable practices. Today, Domaine J. de Villebois is recognized for its high-quality Sauvignon Blancs and commitment to environmental management.
Michael Kavanagh
Thompson Farm, managed by Michael Kavanagh, is a leading example of regenerative agriculture in the UK.
Situated at Church Farm in Boningale, near Wolverhampton, this 688-hectare estate is part of the Green Farm Collective—a network of British farmers dedicated to sustainable and nature-enhancing practices.
Under Kavanagh's stewardship, Thompson Farm has transitioned from conventional methods to a regenerative model focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and reduced chemical inputs. Key practices include:
Minimal Tillage: Adoption of direct drilling techniques has improved soil structure and reduced fuel consumption.
Cover Cropping: Utilization of diverse cover crop mixtures to enhance soil fertility and provide forage for livestock.
Biological Inputs: Application of composts and biostimulants to support microbial activity and plant health.
These strategies have led to an increase in soil organic matter from below 2.5% to 3.25% over six years, enhancing water retention and resilience against drought.
As a founding member of the Green Farm Collective, Thompson Farm collaborates with other like-minded farmers to promote regenerative agriculture. The collective facilitates knowledge sharing, supports natural capital trading, and engages with businesses seeking to invest in sustainable farming practices .
Transform Your Farm with StimBlue+
Ready to boost your yields and enhance soil health? Contact our team of agronomists to learn how StimBlue+ can benefit your farm. Our team is ready to answer all your questions, comments, and requests.
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