Waipara West vineyard and winery is owned by the Tutton Sienko & Hill family partnership, and occupies a distinctive site on the north bank of the Waipara River, with free-draining river gravels, clay-loam soils, and a warm, sheltered microclimate ideal for premium viticulture.

The owners purchased the property in 1989 knowing that, although it was an ‘unsuccessful rabbit infested, sheep farm’, it had a combination of factors suitable for the production of quality grapes. Being further inland and higher than existing Waipara vineyards, it was hotter and less frost prone due to natural air movement caused by the river and the sloping terraces.

Today, their hard work and commitment has paid off, and the estate is known for its expressive Pinot Noir, aromatic whites such as Riesling and Pinot Gris, and structured Bordeaux-style reds.

Planting started in 1989 and there are now some 25 hectares of producing vines.
Soils are complex: a mix of ancient river gravels, clay-loam, and limestone influences, offering excellent drainage and natural low vigour. These soil types, combined with the vineyard’s undulating terrain and varied aspects, create multiple microclimates ideal for a range of varieties, from Pinot Noir and Riesling to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The dry-farmed vineyards result in lower yields and smaller berries, enhancing concentration and structure in the wines. This distinctive terroir allows a wide range of varieties to grow and ripen, creating incredibly diverse flavours.

The Estate’s approach is to create a ‘multi-cultured’ vineyard, where viticulture takes place in and amongst a thriving natural eco-system and environment. And their winemaking approach is for each wine to express the characteristics of its origin in the bottle.