Our Gimblett Gravels Vineyard

Matariki takes great pride in our unique terroir and John and Rosemary firmly believe great wines are made in the vineyard.

It is for this reason that the complex soil mix of the Matariki estate was specifically selected. This was done in order to provide the potential both for complexity through the widest range of blending options and for specific site to variety planting to maximise terrior potential.

A long held passion for soils and John's experience as a drainage contractor and viticulturist has enabled Matariki to choose their special vineyard sites. The free draining land was carefully analysed by aerial mapping, digging, mowing and observing the regrowth of vegetation. The underlying river greywacke gravels have been washed in parts with sand, silts and stones of varying depth. It is this terroir mix which underpins the Matariki Estate.

While soil maps of the area show the soil types in large blocks, John has identified in greater detail the subtle changes in soil type and matched each to a classic wine variety, giving Matariki its unique tapestry of soils and individual plots from which to handcraft their wines.

This large scale soil map shows the main Omahu phase 1 and 1A soil types across the vineyard

The picture below is an interactive picture. By moving the cursor over the area of the vineyard the areas planted with each variety become visible. By left clicking on the variety a new window will open with a description of the soil and grape variety. Note the large variations in soil types as indicated by the colour of the vegetation.

Arial view of the Matariki Wines Gimblett Gravels Vineyard.