OUR VINEYARD

Our vineyard is located on a north-facing gentle slope, 350 metres above sea level. The free draining soils contain both schist rock and wind-blown glacial deposits, creating fine crystalline soil. The extreme climatic conditions, from snowy winters to hot summers, help to create Gibbston Back Road's distinctive flavour profile.

OUR PEOPLE

Austin Black, Senior Winemaker, VinPro

Austin first entered the wine industry in 2006 after relocating to New Zealand from his native Ireland, studying Wine Science at Auckland University.

Austin has worked extensively in wineries all around the world - Burgundy, Austria, USA, Australia - but has spent most of his career in Central Otago, with stints at Chard Farm, Terra Sancta and most recently Prophet’s Rock.

‘I feel so lucky to have moved to New Zealand and fall in love with wine. It is an exciting and dynamic industry, giving me the opportunity to meet countless amazing people, and to eat and drink in some of the best regions in the world. There is nowhere quite like Central Otago though - it is a magical place to live and to make wine in.’

Gary Crabbe, Vineyard Manager

I was born in the wilds of snowy Canada and only seeing a grape vine when I was 23. I was attracted to the hands on aspect of creating a product which not only gives me pride but I can share with friends and family.

A stint at Cape Mentelle in Western Australia and as the parent company of Cloudy Bay I was instantly impressed with the fruit purity and vibrancy of NZ Wines. I attended the Post Grad at Lincoln University and arrived in Central in 1999.

I fell in love with the Gibbston and its distinctive wines and have been living just down the road for the past 15 years. Having a Kiwi wife and amazing children I think I will remain here for a long time as I am hard pressed to find a place with such a great sense of community and the added benefit of some the finest Pinot Noir in the world.