Gentle Folk is one of the Adelaide Hills’ most accomplished small wineries. Founded by Gareth and Rainbo Belton and based in Basket Range, the project began in 2013 with just a few barrels and has steadily grown into a producer known for precise, site-focused wines that capture the clarity and freshness of the region.

The Beltons arrived at wine by an unconventional route. Both trained as marine scientists before shifting their attention to vineyards, bringing with them a strong ecological mindset that now informs their work in the Adelaide Hills. Their sites are farmed with close attention to soil health and vineyard balance, with organic principles guiding the work wherever possible.

In the winery, the approach is simple. Gentle handling, native ferments and minimal additions allow the vineyard to speak clearly. While the wines sit comfortably within the broader minimal intervention space, the focus here is not ideology but precision, texture and drinkability.

The range has evolved considerably since those early vintages. Alongside the relaxed, drink-now blends that first brought attention to the label, the Beltons are increasingly focused on site-driven expressions of Adelaide Hills varieties, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These wines show a clear sense of place, combining purity of fruit with fine structure and freshness.

Small production. Clear intent. Adelaide Hills at its best.