Dog Point Vineyard: Family-Owned Winery in Marlborough
General Information:
Dog Point Vineyard is a family-owned winery situated on the hill slopes in the Southern Valleys of Marlborough, New Zealand.
The vineyard has a rich history of being one of the oldest privately established vineyards in Marlborough with its first plantings in the late 1970s. Dog Point Vineyard is centrally located at the confluence of the smaller Brancott and Omaka valleys, which is considered a desirable area for grape growing.
Certified Organic Vineyard:
Dog Point Vineyard is New Zealand's largest certified organic vineyard by Biogro NZ, which offers sustainable farming practices to produce high-quality grapes that make unique, regionally distinctive wines. The vineyard produces wines that reflect the experience and passion of the people who make them. The wines are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free, which reflects its low interventionist ethos.
Varietals Produced:
Dog Point Vineyard produces four wines:
- Sauvignon Blanc: A typical Marlborough style of Sauvignon Blanc that reflects the freshness and quality of the grapes, with notes of tropical fruit, fresh herbs, and citrus.
- Section 94: An aromatic blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, with barrel fermentation and aging that gives it a unique texture and complexity.
- Chardonnay: A complex and balanced Chardonnay with hints of citrus and a subtle creamy texture.
- Pinot Noir: A single vineyard Pinot Noir that exhibits elegance, intensity, and depth.
Visiting Dog Point Vineyard:
Visitors can take a vineyard tour and tasting by appointment only. The tour offers an insight into the winery's operations and winemaking process from the vineyard to the bottle. The winery offers a laidback ambiance with delightful wines, local produce, and cozy seating areas.
History:
Dog Point Vineyard's name dates from the earliest European settlement of Marlborough, when a marauding pack of dogs used to dwell in the area. Today, the owners, Ivan and Margaret Sutherland, alongside James and Wendy Healy, are involved in the winemaking process.
When to Visit:
The best time to visit Dog Point Vineyard is during the summer season (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny, making it an ideal time to explore the vineyard and take a tour while enjoying some of the best wines in the region.
How to Get There:
Dog Point Vineyard is located approximately 13 km from Blenheim, in the Southern Valleys of Marlborough. The easiest way to get there is by car, and visitors can take the State Highway 1 towards the turnoff to Dog Point Road. Visitors can also book a private tour or hire a taxi to get there.