Bridgewater Mill is the second label of the Petaluma winery and part of the Lion Nathan group. It is based within the Heritage listed Bridgewater Mill at Mt Barker Road Bridgewater in the Adelaide Hills.

The Adelaide Hills has an unequivocally cool climate due to its 400-500m altitude. Rainfall is variable, increasing at higher elevations but generally irrigation is required. The soil is predominately grey to grey-brown sandy loams, well suited to viticulture. The undulating slopes create many different aspects for vineyards, another feature contributing to the area’s reputation as one of the most distinguished wine regions in Australia.

In 1984 Petaluma was already a well established and awarded SA winery. At that time they produced their first sparkling wine using fruit from the Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills. In the same year, they purchased the derelict Bridgewater Mill built in 1860. In 1985, Petaluma invited Bollinger to become shareholders and the capital gained through this partnership assisted in the renovation of the Bridgewater Mill building.

A beautiful restaurant and cellar-door were created, along with a methode champenoise cellaring and production facility. Advisors from Bollinger continue to have a close association with the development of Bridgewater's sparkling wine production. The mill has become a popular tourist attraction, the stone flour mill beautifully restored, the water wheel still turned by a running stream. The award winning Petaluma Restaurant is a fine dining establishment, a ‘must see’ on many fine food listings.

In 1986 Petaluma decided to release a range of wines under the Bridgewater Mill label at lower price points than those of the Petaluma range. Focused on producing wines specifically from the Adelaide Hills, they are different from, but complementary to, the Petaluma brand.

The Bridgewater Mill vineyards are managed with a natural approach, reducing environmental impact and supporting sustainable viticultural practices. They are working towards achieving a balanced natural biodiversity.

Bridgewater Mill produces a wide range of mouth-watering, fresh and crisp wines, including a sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Shiraz.

The Bridgewater Mill wine labels were created from an original piece of ink work by artist Brenton Hill representing the horizon line of the Adelaide Hills region with its arcs and gullies. Each wine style label has a different single panel of the full work. - Daniel Jess