Conders Bend is situated over the main Wairau aquifer, enabling the controlled application of pure, clean water if required in the all-too-common very dry summer conditions.


Bladen is a family-run vineyard producing small quantities of Sauvignon Blanc along with Gewrztraminer, Pinot Gris and Riesling. Bladen was established in 1989 with the desire to create a range of boutique wines that reflect the individuality and personality of our small vineyard. Initially we became contract grape growers, and to better understand the local wine industry, we both worked at local wineries for several years. In 1997, we took the step forward to produce wine under our own label. We are passionate about the wines we are producing, with a strong focus on vineyard quality.

With minimal vineyard mechanisation and an environmental awareness, quality is always foremost at every step, from intense pruning and shoot thinning to ensure low crop levels, careful canopy management to ensure light exposure and even fruit ripening, through to the expert winemaking methods of our winemaker, Simon Waghorn.

All wines are made from grapes grown entirely on the 8 hectare Bladen Vineyard. Before the 2000 Vintage we had made the decision not to sell any more fruit to other companies, so we are proud to say we now produce all our fruit under the Bladen Label.