Ohau Gravels wins Gold and the trophy

Ohau Gravels is one of two labels marketed by Bishop Vineyard Holdings who are based in the Kapiti Horowhenua region.  This year they released the first vintage from their new vineyards in Ohau after planting around 100,000 vines in what until now has been an unproven but potentially exciting new region for producing wine.  The vineyard has only just commenced production with half of their vines being planted in 2008.

The achievement of Ohau Gravels Pinot Gris 2009 winning gold and the Champion Pinot Gris and Brother Cyprian Trophy at the Bragato Wine Awards 2009 was a big tick for everyone involved.

Stanmore Farm’s Kate Gibbs is the consulting viticulturist for the vineyard and her husband and business partner Tim Gibbs, is the consulting engineer.  Stanmore Farm also manages the vineyards on a contract basis for the owners.

Before planting Kate Gibbs recognised that the terraces shaped by the Ohau River, combined with excellent soil profiles and a climate with long indian summers would be conducive to grape growing.

“The decision to plant in what until now has been an unproven region has been vindicated.” Said Kate Gibbs.  “But there has also been a meticulous focus on quality in both the vineyard and winery with wine maker Jane Cooper ensuring that the fruit expressed itself fully with minimal intervention.” 

At the same awards, Bishop Vineyard's other label “Woven Stone” won a silver medal for its Pinot Gris 2009 and the only other wine they entered was their Ohau Gravels Sauvignon Blanc 2009 that took home a bronze.

All and all it was a good day for the new vineyard with the expectation of many more to come.

Posted: Tue 15 Sep 2009

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