Fundamental properties of six synthetic ester base fluids, suitable for the formulation of environmentally adapted lubricants, have been investigated. High pressure viscosity data for the test fluids were obtained through experimental measurements with a high pressure Couette rheometer. The temperature, pressure and viscosity data η(p, T) were parameterized against the Roelands pressure-viscosity equation. Thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity data were obtained using a transient hotwire method, and the EHD friction coefficient, γ, was obtained experimentally as well. The results from these measurements are reported, and the correlation between thermal properties, molecular structure, and the fluid rheology parameters, of the test fluids are discussed.