Hamden Estate

Hamden Estate vineyard is located on the Dry River Terraces approximately six kilometres south of Martinborough on Dry River Road. The vineyard from its elevated site has spectacular views to the Tararua Ranges. The Dry River area was one of the first sheep stations farmed in the Wairarapa from the 1840(TM)s. Among the surrounding vineyards are Coney Wines, Murdoch James, Stonecrop and Margrain(TM)s River Edge Vineyard.

The first vines were planted in 2003 and were dry grown, that is without irrigation, so as to become deep rooted and in due course produce strong varietal flavours. The first three acres of the 20 acre block were planted in sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, pinot gris and riesling as well as four clones of pinot noir. The vines were planted by the owners and loyal friends whose enthusiasm for digging holes in a stony river bed waned after the first hour. A further three acres will produce fruit in 2011.

The first small vintage was in 2007 for the whites and 2008 for the pinot noir.

The 2010 vintage didn(TM)t start that well with cool temperatures and unseasonably strong winds. Thankfully, they abated in mid"January and the weather from thereon was perfect. The winds meant a light crop but all indications are that the flavours will be outstanding. We look forward to our first tastes later in the year.

The label depicts the owners(TM) three daughters who have provided abundant advice over the years, some related to the vineyard.

Wine sales are avaliable most weekends on site and through the email address.