Murdoch James Estate Ltd New Zealand Wineries Wairarapa Wineries Featherston & Districts Wineries Welcome

Murdoch James Estate Ltd

Welcome

About Us:

Martinborough is in the bottom right corner of the North Island of New Zealand. A wide valley between mountain ranges, it has highly suitable soil types that enable the small group of winemakers in this region to produce 10% of New Zealand's award winning wines.

Roger and Jill Fraser, owners of Murdoch James Estate, first planted Pinot Noir and Syrah on 12 acres on Martin borough's river terraces in 1986. The first vintages they bottled of the Pinot Noir won gold medals and trophies. This pattern of achievement has continued. In 1998 they purchased Blue Rock Vineyard on Dry River Road, Martinborough. This vineyard is 8km out of town, situated on a frost free sloping site. This purchase extended their range to include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Riesling.They now have 25 hectares in vines.

Their wine making philosophy is shared by Barbara Turner, the viticulturist, and James Walker, winemaker. Excellent quality grapes make excellent quality wine. The vineyards are cropped at low levels, vineyard management meets organic and sustainability standards, and a lot of attention is given to plant and soil health.

This commitment produces wines that are stylish and individual, perfectly balanced with delicious aromas and gem-like colour.

The winery is set in beautiful surroundings. The Dry River winds around the property before its underground journey to Lake Wairarapa. From the tasting room and caf deck you can hear the chuckling river, watch darting Swallows and see the misty blue mountain ranges in the distance.

Wine Tasting and Sales:
Open daily from 11am to 5.30pm

Caf:
Open 12.00 am to 3.00 pm weekends and public holidays.
Group bookings are welcome.