The vines are planted 1.5m apart in rows spaced at 3m. They are cane pruned by hand. Trickle irrigation was installed when the vineyard was setup but because the subsoil is clay the need for water is reduced.

Shoot thinning, leaf plucking and bunch thinning are all carried out to control yields which are purposely kept low so that the fruit can ripen as fully as possible. Selective hand picking during April and May guarantees that only the best grapes are harvested and ensures that the fruit remains in excellent condition during transport to the Sherwood Estate Winery at Waipara.

From 2002 all of the wines will be sealed with screwcaps to further ensure that the premium quality remains.

The Lyon Background

"We have had a lifetime on the land in South Canterbury operating an intensive cropping business and raising a family. One son Alister, has remained to share the farm work and organise the viticulture.

When the idea of growing grapes on the slope in front of our house was suggested, we knew nothing about the wine industry. Our intention was to supply grapes as contract growers but when we realised that the area's cool climate was ideal for producing premium wine we decided to operate under our own label.

The venture fits in well with our busy seasonal lifestyle. We know that timing of work in the vineyard is very important, that's where our arable background has been very useful.

It's been a steep learning curve but when we gained awards at major New Zealand wine shows we knew the experience had been and still is well worth it".

Colin & Brenda Lyon