In the verdant landscape of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, winemaker Maggie Harrison of Antica Terra is redefining viticulture not by expanding vineyards at nature’s expense, but by nurturing the very ecosystems she stewards. Her revolutionary approach centers on a profound commitment to preserving existing woodlands, particularly native oak savannahs, ensuring that the creation of exceptional wine does not come at the cost of ancient trees. This groundbreaking philosophy has positioned Harrison and Antica Terra as pioneers, making a huge difference in their field and earning them acclaim from wine lovers all over.
The Philosophy of Preservation: Rooted in Nature
Maggie Harrison, co-founder of Antica Terra winery, arrived in Oregon with a vision that diverged sharply from conventional agricultural expansion. Instead of seeking to clear land for more grapevines, Harrison actively sought properties that already boasted significant natural beauty and ecological value. Upon purchasing land, her priority was not to maximize acreage for vines, but to safeguard the existing native oak savannahs and other natural habitats. This dedication means that for nearly two decades, Harrison has intentionally avoided cutting down trees, integrating her vineyards within a living landscape. “I knew that I would never cut down a single tree on that property,” she has stated, underscoring a core tenet of her winemaking ethos.
Regenerative Viticulture: A Symbiotic Approach
Antica Terra’s commitment to preservation is brought to life through rigorous regenerative and organic farming practices. The winery eschews synthetic pesticides and insecticides, focusing instead on building a robust, self-sustaining ecosystem. Key to this are methods such as minimal tillage, which protects soil structure and microbial life, and the extensive use of cover crops, often wildflowers, which not only prevent erosion but also support biodiversity. Compost, derived from recycled vineyard waste and even animal manure, is used to enrich the soil naturally. The winery actively integrates animal husbandry, with sheep, chickens, geese, and ducks roaming the grounds, performing the dual role of natural pest control and fertilization. This holistic strategy ensures that the land thrives alongside the vines, demonstrating how farming and conservation can coexist.
Cultivating Biodiversity and Combating Climate Change
The preservation of Antica Terra’s 88 acres of native oak savannah is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a vital act of ecological stewardship. These oak woodlands provide critical habitat for over 500 wildlife species, including various birds and insects. By maintaining these natural areas, Harrison supports a complex food web and contributes to the resilience of the local ecosystem. Furthermore, regenerative agriculture practices, such as increasing soil organic matter through composting and cover cropping, play a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change. This focus on regenerating soil health and biodiversity goes beyond mere sustainability, actively working to heal and enhance the environment, making Antica Terra a model for people making a huge difference.
Recognition and a Growing Movement
Maggie Harrison’s distinctive approach has garnered significant attention, attracting fans such as LeBron James and Pink, who appreciate not only the exceptional quality of Antica Terra’s wines but also the profound integrity behind their creation. The winery holds Demeter certification, a testament to its adherence to biodynamic practices, which align seamlessly with its regenerative goals. Harrison’s work is part of a larger, trending movement within Oregon and beyond, where winemakers are increasingly embracing sustainable and regenerative viticulture. This shift signals a growing industry-wide awareness that the future of fine wine depends on environmental health and a deeper connection to the land. The news of these practices is inspiring others in the industry to explore similar paths.
A Vision for the Future of Wine
Maggie Harrison’s journey at Antica Terra is a powerful narrative about making a huge difference in one’s field by harmonizing human endeavor with natural processes. Her decision to prioritize the preservation of trees and native habitats over agricultural expansion offers a compelling blueprint for the wine industry. It demonstrates that exceptional quality and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive, but can, in fact, be deeply intertwined. As Antica Terra continues to produce world-class wines, it also cultivates a healthier planet, proving that innovation in winemaking can indeed be rooted in reverence for nature.
