What the winery says . . .

In 1974, Lois and the late Rolfe Mills moved back to the family farm in Wanaka. Acting largely on a hunch born in the schist slopes of the Douro Valley many years earlier, they planted a few short rows of experimental vines on a small steep bank above their house. Despite the mostly negative opinions of the viticultural experts of the time, the climate data that Rolfe collected was encouragement enough for them to plant their first commercial vineyard block in 1982. The growing belief they had in the site’s potential to produce fine wine was soon to be realised.

There were many years of monitoring weather patterns, sugar levels and different grape varieties that could be suitable to the area. Through many years of empirical and scientific observation, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Gewurztraminer & Sauvignon Blanc quickly came to the fore as the varieties which are most suited to the Rippon site.

40% of this wine was fermented in old French barrels, not for the oak, but for the form of the vessel itself. Mouthfeel is gained here by high lees to wine contact and a more efficient natural lees stirring across unhurried wild ferments.

What we say . . .

Iconic Rippon vineyard, located on the sublime shores of Lake Wanaka is owned and mainly run by the Mills Family. It has a deserved cult following aound the world and is often described as the most beautiful vineyard in the world. 1974 the family planted there first experimental vines. 

Now over thirty years later the total area of vines is at 15 hectares. This wine matches intense fruit notes and a coiled-spring minerality in perfect harmony. A very green and grassy scented Sauvignon Blanc with an added hint of honey and peaches on the nose, this wine displays the regional typicity of Savvy in this semi-arid and stony regions beautifully.

Awards & Accolades . . .