Gil Wahlquist, Australia’s first organic grapegrower and winemaker, died last Friday. 

A Sydney-based journalist, Wahlquist escaped the rat race in 1971 to establish Botobolar Vineyard at Mudgee.

Not happy with the chemical intensive regime that was the norm at the time, he moved to organics. Botobolar was the first and for many years the only Australian vineyard accredited by the National Association of Sustainable Agriculture.

In 2008 he was awarded the Graham Gregory Trophy for his contribution to the NSW Wine Industry.

He died peacefully at home with his wife Vincie at his side. He is also survived by his children Asa Karin, Janet, Roland and Nancy and five grandchildren.