Waimea Estates

The winery is located in Richmond, not far from the city of Nelson (region of the same name, Waimea Plains sub-region) in the north of New Zealand's South Island. It was founded in the early 1990s by Trevor Bolitho (Managing Director) and his wife Robyn. The first vines were planted in 1993 and the first wines were marketed in 1997. In the meantime, son Ben Bolitho (winemaker and general manager) also works in the business with his wife Anna. Trudy Sheild is responsible as cellar master and head winemaker. The vineyards cover more than 140 hectares, which are divided into six vineyards. Only their own grapes are processed (no purchase or contract winemakers).

The vineyards are cultivated according to the guidelines of the association "Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand" with the aim of ecological, social and economic sustainability. This is promoted by, among other things, the introduction of wildlife, the cultivation of native grasses and trees, and the use of a flock of sheep. The sheep remove grass, weeds and leaves while providing fertiliser. They are planted with the white wine varieties Sauvignon Blanc (over 50%), Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Viognier, Sauvignon Gris, Albariño (Alvarinho) and Grüner Veltliner, as well as the red wine varieties Pinot Noir (18%), Cabernet Franc and Syrah.