This high level of self-sufficiency enables it to
control its grape quality and to focus on providing
consistent ultra-premium wine at sustainable price
points.
Its principal vineyards are situated in both Hawkes
Bay and Marlborough. These are the largest and most
proven grape-growing regions of New Zealand.
Southbank Estate produces predominantly for export
markets, concentrating only on those varietals for
which Hawkes Bay and Marlborough are renowned. Southbank
prides itself on having the right people, the right
land, modern wine practices and consumer-driven wine
styles.
The Right Land
Southbank Estate has carefully selected and acquired
both bare land and mature vineyards in those regions
that have established reputations for the varietals
best suited to the terroir.
In Marlborough it controls two estates.
Terrace Road - A 40-acre block situated in the renowned
Wairau Valley with a flat topography. The soils are
alluvial in nature and consist of silt loams overlaying
river gravels. These soil types are typical of those
associated with the production of high-quality Sauvignon
Blanc.
The Confluence Vineyard - A 120-acre block situated
west of Renwick in the upper Wairau Valley. This vineyard
lies at the confluence of the Waihopai and Wairau
Rivers. Soils are sandy silt loams on shingle with
stones in the topsoil. It is predominantly planted
with Sauvignon Blanc.
Hawkes Bay is made up of three estates.
Mere Rd and Omahu Rd - Situated in the renowned Gimblett
Rd district, these three blocks combine 30 acres of
gravels. The vineyards are planted with premium Syrah
vines.
Kereru Rd - This estate of approximately 150 acres
is situated in Mangatahi and lies north of the beautiful
Ngaruroro River. Its dominating features are the four
large terraces overlooking significant river flats.
The soils are made up of free-draining, stony ground
with topsoil that becomes light and fluffy in the
drying north-west winds that predominate in this region.
This estate is planted in Bordeaux varieties and Pinot
Noir. Plans have been developed for planting aromatics
on the gravelly river flats.
People Make the Business
Southbank Estate has carefully chosen experienced
leaders in viticulture, winemaking and wine marketing
to create a market-driven culture and approach to
best practice.
Matthew Mitchell (Principal Winemaker) - His is an
internationally recognised name; a New Zealander with
considerable experience in different wine regions.
John van der Linden (Principal Viticulturist) - Formerly
with New Zealand's largest wine company, he has a
wealth of experience in the regions where Southbank
operates.
Noel Scanlan (Chief Operating Officer) - He has 30
years' experience in the wine industry, including
significant knowledge of marketing and distribution
in markets outside New Zealand.
