Our sustainability practices in our Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay vineyards reflect the sacredness with which we regard the soils and waters of these great wine-growing regions.

In our vineyards, we draw water from underground aquifers only when necessary and through moisture-probe technology we monitor the soil moisture and schedule supplementary irrigation only when required to support the healthy growth of the vine, thus conserving water use.

When mowing between vine rows,

grass cuttings are pushed under the vines to suppress weed growth whilst improving soil structure, health, organic matter and nutrients. Compost and mulch are used to increase soil organic matter to improve soil health and soil water holding capacity.

A wide variety of plant species including grasses, Chicory and Buckwheat are planted inter-row to attract beneficial insects to control vine pests, therefore reducing our reliance on the use of sprays.

By investing in multi-function tractors and equipment that use low impact tyres, we minimise machine passes, which reduces soil compaction and fossil fuel usage.

Our Marlborough winery was designed entirely around nature. On one hand it was created, in all its cleverness and complexity, simply to capture the pure and essential taste of the region. On the other hand it was built to bring everything under one roof uniquely insulated to create a temperature-controlled, energy-saving environment within.

Waste water from our winemaking process is biologically treated using our world-class liquid waste treatment plant to return it to the environment for irrigation.

At the end of the day we live by a simple truth — wine is a direct product of its environment. By protecting and preserving that environment we are protecting and preserving our own future.