Our Estate
A wild coast
like no other
Our estate is located directly south of Marlborough’s Wairau Valley, in the Awatere Valley; the coolest and driest of Marlborough’s three sub-regions.
Situated right at the edge of the ocean where exposed cliffs and untamed coastline meets our OTU Estate vineyard blocks, the growing season this far south is longer, with high sunshine hours where ripening is extended – allowing for a perfect balance of intense flavour, delicious acidity and optimal ripeness at harvest.
Stand-out sub region
The Awatere Valley, Marlborough New Zealand
Its wild wind blown, rough, dry, hilly wild coast terrain conspires to produce distinctive, complex, and edgy wines – with vines that have to work harder in this harsh environment. It is the most geographically distinct subregion of Marlborough – and this makes it very unique.
Our Estate
Untamed wild coastline
Planting commenced in the year 2000 for the five vineyard blocks, set alongside the ancient Otuwhero River and the untamed coastline of the pacific ocean.
Each block possesses clear defining flavour characteristics from the rolling, sea swept and highly terraced terrain. These majestic coastal blocks are exposed to the wild weather from the pacific ocean which de-vigour the vines resulting in small intensely flavoured berries- that deliver unrivalled intensity and purity to our Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
McKee Top Block, McKee 3 and Otuwhero Flats of M1 & 2 are exposed to the wild ocean winds and warmer moderating sea breezes, positioned on steep terracing to maximise sun exposure.
Otuwhero Hammond and Dysart Blocks are tucked further inland surrounded by snowy mountain peaks creating a uniquely rich soil environment from mountain range to ancient river bed.
Within the OTU estate, 160ha is fully planted, predominantly with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, with the balance to be developed over the coming years.
