The Real Review's Rising Star of the Year Australia 2025

Gareth and Rainbo Belton have grown the reputation of Gentle Folk to the point where their wines are now among the most in-demand in all of Australian wine. This is a case of gentle folk making gentle wines, but there’s more to it than that: both Gareth and Rainbo are also marine scientists, their (PhD) specialty being marine plants (seaweeds), and there’s a sense to everything that they do that the natural order and way of things is their chief informant. The Adelaide Hills region has been crucial – indeed, the driver – of the Australian 'progressive wine' movement, and Gentle Folk has been a quiet but inspiring ingredient thereof. The wines ooze a natural charm that only inspired farming practices and sensitive winemaking can deliver. Gentle Folk are truly unique Australian wines that express their origins and the ethos of their dedicated thoughtful maker.  And yes, they sell out fast!