Winery Location:
Oratia - New Zealand
Owner(s): Rex and Maria Sunde
 The Sunde Family have been growing grapes in the Oratia valley on the outskirts of Auckland since 1906. This beautiful terraced vineyard was first planted in 1995. It's shallow clay soils produce wines with fine aroma and excellent structure.
All of the important vine tending work in this vineyard is done by hand. Often three generations of the family can be found working side by side.
The vineyard produces a multiple award winning Syrah and limited quantities of 'Dominic', a blend of Gamay noir & Pinot noir.
The first vintage of Syrah (2002) was judged "Best Syrah" at the 2004 Bragato Awards, placing this wine at the pinnacle of New Zealand Syrah.
Syrah was first planted in 1997 and further plantings extended in 1998, 2000 and 2004. This is one of the first vineyards in New Zealand to use a mix of the highest quality modern French clones and ancient material from the vineyards of Hermitage and St Joseph in the Northern Rhone.
Fantail Island takes it name from a tiny island in the stream at the edge of the vineyard. These birds dart around the vineyard feeding on flying insects as we work. They are almost constant company as we prune in winter.
Rex & Maria Sunde
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