Millton Vineyards

In 1984, James and Annie Millton founded The Millton Vineyard near Manutuke, New Zealand. The region has a rich grape-growing history dating back to 1871. Annie's father, Mr. John Clark, had established vineyards at 'Opou' in Manutuke in the late 1960s. After gaining experience in renowned wine regions in France and Germany, including Champagne Bollinger and Maison Sichel in Bordeaux, James and Annie returned to Gisborne. In 1984, they founded The Millton Vineyard. Their early releases, including Riesling and Chenin Blanc, quickly gained recognition, winning numerous awards and gold medals. Their wines, like the 1992 Gisborne Chardonnay, received international acclaim. The Millton Vineyard comprises three Gisborne vineyards: Opou, Te Arai, and the Clos de Ste. Anne, all located in Manutuke. The region's unique character results from its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its geologically youthful sedimentary soils. Cooling sea breezes create a friendly, temperate climate. All their vineyards adhere to traditional viticultural practices. They dry-farm the vineyards and avoid using insecticides, herbicides, systemic fungicides, or soluble fertilizers, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly winemaking.