Yealands Wine Estate, in New Zealand, makes wines that are close to nature. The place is located close to the oceans, so there is a hint of sea spray in each and every bottle of wine created here. Located in the northeastern corner of South Island, Yealands Estate was set up with the aim of becoming one of the world’s finest sustainable vineyards.
The vineyards are located in New Zealand’s best wine-growing region, Marlborough Valley. The microclimate prevailing the coastal regions of these vineyards helps to give a distinct flavour and character to the varietals grown here. Established in 2008 by Peter Yealands, this wine estate is a result of hard work, passion for winemaking and sustainable viticultural practices.
The areas in Awatere Valley were considered as unsuitable for winemaking for many years, until the Yealands family decided to change certain things. The Seaview Vineyard, from where grapes are sourced for this brand’s wines, is located at the base of the Kaikoura Mountain Range, and it stretches up until Cook Strait. Currently, this vineyard is the biggest, privately-owned vineyard in the entire country of New Zealand.
The Marlborough Valley experiences the longest hours of sunlight in the country; this, when combined with the coastal climatic conditions, helps in the natural ripening of the grapes here. The coastal winds and the previous vine prunings are used to make natural sources of power, to keep the vineyards as natural as possible, and free from diseases.
The grapes used for making Yealands Estate Wines are Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Gruner Veltliner, PGR and Chardonnay. PGR is the wine that is made from a blend of Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and Riesling. Among the reds, the varietals used are Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah and Tempranillo. Apart from the red and white wines, Yealands Estate also makes a few rose’ wines.