Terrace Edge Albarino

**Vineyard of the Year** New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2018

Spontaneously purchased in 1999, after exploring the Marlborough wine region, Terrace Edge Wines in the Waipara Valley is the very essence of a family owned and operated business. The North Canterbury property was originally a sheep farm, and the Chapman family began their land conversion by planting 2000 olive trees on the lower terrace. The planting of twelve hectares of vines followed. With no previous experience, the development of the business was taken on with a real trial and error approach. The development of Terrace Edge has not been unlike producing a truly great wine, it requires a real hands-on approach. The whole family is involved in the various aspects of the business.

The warm days, cool nights and dry autumns of the Waipara Valley are ideal for producing outstanding wines, which reflect the varied aspects of their growing conditions. The Terrace Edge vineyard is planted in accordance with the variation in soil across the estate. Each plot has been specifically selected and matched with specific vine varieties in order to express their most desirable qualities in the finished wines once in bottle. The entire Chapman family strongly endorse the philosophy that only a healthy soil will nourish the vineyard and produce beautiful fruit which, in turn, can be crafted into high quality, distinctive organic wine. The vineyard is certified organic by BioGro, following a conversion that began in 2011. Official recognition of their organic status was achieved in March 2014. Vines planted include Pinot Noir, Syrah, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc with small recent plantings of Albarino and a variety often encountered in Austria, St. Laurent. All wines are crafted under the ever-watchful eye of winemaker Gavin Tait.