|
| ||
|
Nelson's sustainable vineyardThe vineyards and winery are accredited as Sustainable, under Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand accreditation scheme that audits the vineyards for organic and biodynamic practices. The sustainable vineyard include practices like minimising herbicide and using natural control of pests and diseases where possible, reducing water usage and protecting the natural soil structure.Nelson is the sunniest place in New Zealand, sheltered from southerly storms by mountain ranges. Woollaston Estates has 75 hectares of vineyards in two distinct sub-regions, with grape varieties and clones matched to the terroir. Two vineyards are planted on the clay-bound gravels formed in the rolling hills of Upper Moutere as ice-age glaciers melted. At 100 metres above sea level the Mahana vineyard is one of the highest in Nelson. Mahana means "warm" in Maori, and the north-facing, gently rolling slopes make good use of the spring sunshine, while catching the cooling afternoon sea breeze in mid-summer. The largest of the Woollaston Estates vineyards, it is planted predominantly in Pinot Noir, with some Pinot Gris and Riesling. The second Moutere vineyard, Kelling Road, is also planted in Pinot Noir, with some Pinot Gris. The soils at Kelling Road are similar to Mahana and its north facing slopes enjoy excellent air drainage and a long, slow ripening season. Fifteen km away on the Waimea Plains, the Burke's Bank vineyard is planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Gris. The stony, free-draining alluvial soils over deep, compacted gravel adds ripe melon and tropical fruit notes to our Sauvignon Blanc, floral aromas and intense fruit flavours to the Riesling and Pinot Gris. The vineyard sites have been chosen so that a minimum of manipulation is required in order to allow the grapes, soil and climate to express their full potential. Grape varieties, rootstock and clones were selected and matched to the different soils, and vine rows orientated for aspect and exposure. |
|
