155 million years old. That’s how old the rock formations are beneath Jurassic Ridge Vineyard. Jurassic Ridge Vineyard isn’t just a vineyard. It’s a journey through time. A testament to the power of nature and the dedication of a family. Located in historic Church Bay on Waiheke Island this small family-owned vineyard boasts breathtaking views. It sits above the site of one of Auckland’s earliest missionary churches. The views stretch across the bay the Hauraki Gulf islands and the Auckland city skyline.
The name itself is a clue to the vineyard’s unique terroir. The vines are planted on the exposed core of an ancient mountain ridge. This ridge was once almost 3000 meters high. The sedimentary rock strata consist of greywacke sandstones mudstones and argillites. Mysterious cherts and submarine basaltic pillow lavas are also present. These rocks weather down into low-fertility stony cracking clay soils. They are rich in iron oxides manganese and magnesium from ancient volcanic intrusions.
Lance Blumhardt the founder is a man of many talents. He’s the viticulturist winemaker cellar door pourer sales manager and tractor driver. His background in science geology and medicine has been invaluable. He’s aided by Luciana Pelosi and Adrian Dumitru. Luciana a frequent taster brings critical expertise from Italy’s Taurasi region. Adrian adds his viticultural experience from Tuscany’s La Sorvana estate. Even Danny Schuster a renowned viticulturist co-author of ‘Grape Growing and Winemaking in a Cool Climate’ has lent his expertise.
Jurassic Ridge Vineyard isn’t just about the geology. It’s about meticulous sustainable viticulture. The grapes are hand-picked and selected. The vineyard employs impeccable low-cropping techniques. They use careful canopy and soil management avoiding herbicides. The winemaking is minimal intervention. It involves gentle slow natural ferments in small batches. Extended cellar aging typically three to four years before bottling is a key to their success. Another three to six years of bottle aging follows before release. The result is a unique set of ‘slow wines’ with a true sense of place. Wines that reflect the 155 million years of history beneath your feet.
So raise a glass. Enjoy the unique wines of Jurassic Ridge Vineyard. You’re not just tasting wine. You’re tasting history. You are experiencing a legacy born from earth time and dedication. A small family business that’s produced award winning wines. And all while enjoying spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf.