HISTORY - Small Beginnings

In 1978 a DSIR report was published that analysed which areas in New Zealand were best suited for the production of high quality wines from classical grape varieties. Based on available data at the time, the report concluded that the closest New Zealand climatic analog to Burgundy was to be found in the small rain shadow centred on the township of Martinborough in the southern Wairarapa. This resulted in the establishment of Martinborough Vineyard in 1980.

The free draining soils, hot summers and reliable long dry autumn suggested that the area was ideally suited to Burgundian style wines especially Pinot noir. One of the authors of the report, Dr Derek Milne, was so convinced of the validity of their conclusions that, together with a group of 5 other enthusiasts, bought 16 acres in the zone and started Martinborough Vineyard.

Today five of the six original enthusiasts remain as the shareholders and four as directors of Martinborough Vineyard Ltd.

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