Vircura, a plant-based technology company, has teamed up with The Madgett’s Block to plant South Australia’s first commercial agave crop in Willunga to meet the growing global demand for agave-based spirits.
In the heart of Willunga, the site now features 1,200 blue agave plants, essential for making tequila. But because of geographic restrictions, the locally produced agave can’t be called tequila and will be classified as agave spirit instead.
Adam Djekic, General Manager of Vircura, highlighted the crop’s unique positioning within the local agricultural sector: “Agave crops are completely new to South Australia and we see it as an emerging commercial industry,” said Mr Djekic. He recognised the potential for expansion in Australia, noting: “Tequila is one of the fastest growing spirits popularity-wise internationally.”
Introducing agave as a cash crop offers regional wine grape growers an alternative due to economic pressures like grape oversupply and changing international markets. Agave takes between three to six years to mature. Once ready, Vircura plans to work with The Madgett’s Block owners, Oli and Tara Madgett, to find a buyer for distillation.
Professor Rachel Burton, Chief Scientific Officer at Vircura and a specialist in plant molecular biology, is deeply involved in the project. Dr Burton explained: “Agave is a wonder plant that has many uses and is hardy and drought resistant, making it perfect for our climate.” The venture not only aims at spirit production but also explores agave’s potential in producing bioethanol and hydrogen.
In addition to its commercial goals, the agave farm also serves as a research and development site. Oli Madgett, who manages family vineyards in the region, is exploring different agave varieties. He’s also studying how to use by-products and improve planting practices for greater sustainability.
“We were looking at what we could do with our land and how we could make it sustainable,” he said. With experience in carbon capture in soils and agritech ecosystems, Mr Madgett sees agave as an adaptable and sustainable choice that could enhance the agricultural landscape of South Australia.
Agave is versatile beyond just spirit distillation. It can be turned into silage for animal feed, and its fibers might be used in building materials, similar to industrial hemp. Additionally, its fire resistance makes it a potential firebreak, helping protect vineyards and crops from bushfires.
This new venture not only shifts towards more sustainable and economically viable farming but could also set an example for other growers in the region and across Australia. With this innovative crop, South Australia could become a leading agave producer outside Mexico.
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