If you’re looking for fine wine that combines Old World traditions with the unique terroir of New Zealand, Hans Herzog Estate is a true gem. Tucked away in Marlborough, this boutique vineyard offers everything from exceptional Sauvignon Blanc to rare Bordeaux blends, showcasing the dedication of Hans and Therese Herzog to creating wines of the highest calibre.

A Story of Passion and Perfection

How does one describe a vineyard that inspires awe, a winemaking philosophy rooted in perfection, and wines so extraordinary they leave you lost for words—without sounding overly sentimental?

For me, Hans Herzog Estate represents everything I love about wine. After meeting Hans and Therese, I was struck by their relentless pursuit of excellence. Hans is devoted to producing only the very best wines, while Therese’s passion lies in sharing his creations with the world.

This vineyard is no ordinary operation; it is a labour of love, where meticulous attention to detail is evident in every stage of production.

A Terroir Millions of Years in the Making

Although Hans purchased the vineyard in 1994, its story began millions of years ago. The land, once the riverbed of the Wairau River, features mineral-rich, stony alluvial soils. These free-draining soils, similar to those found in Bordeaux’s Médoc, are ideal for cultivating grapes.

The gravel retains and reflects heat, aiding grape ripening, while the nutrient-poor soils encourage concentrated flavours. This diverse terroir accommodates both early and late-ripening varieties, allowing Hans to grow over 20 different grapes—one of the most eclectic vineyards in New Zealand.

Beyond the Marlborough Stereotype

Hans Herzog Estate defies the Marlborough norm. While the region is dominated by large-scale producers catering to global demand for Sauvignon Blanc, Hans’s approach couldn’t be more different.

This small, family-run vineyard is home to varietals rarely seen in New Zealand. Reds include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano, Zweigelt, Tempranillo, and Pinot Noir. Whites range from Chardonnay and Pinot Gris to Viognier and, of course, Sauvignon Blanc.

Methodical and Meticulous Winemaking

Hans is hands-on at every stage, from planting to fermentation. His unwavering commitment to quality includes techniques like green harvesting, where a third of the potential yield is removed to focus the vine’s energy on fewer, better grapes.

Every bunch is hand-sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used. This painstaking process is time-consuming and expensive, but the results speak for themselves.

Hans Herzog Wines You Must Try

1. 2019 Hans Herzog Sauvignon Blanc ‘Sur Lie’

Price: £36.00
This is not your typical Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Inspired by Bordeaux’s finest whites, this wine undergoes long skin contact, natural fermentation in barrels, and 18 months of lees ageing. The result is a rich, dry, and explosively complex wine with a silkiness rarely found in New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
Perfect Pairing: Seafood, creamy risottos, or simply on its own for a moment of indulgence.
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2. 2019 Hans Herzog Pinot Gris

Price: £34.00
Hans Herzog was a trailblazer for Pinot Gris in New Zealand. He introduced skin-contact techniques that give his wine its distinctive pink hue. This Pinot Gris is bursting with earthy flavours, an intense mouthfeel, and a captivating depth of colour.
Perfect Pairing: Sashimi, smoked trout, or an earthy mushroom dish.
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3. 2019 Secret of Marlborough Montepulciano

Price: £48.00
Described as “a hug in a bottle,” this Montepulciano exemplifies Hans’s meticulous winemaking. The vines are spur-pruned, with yields as low as 500g per vine, ensuring intense flavours and complexity. A wine that feels equally at home with a hearty meal or enjoyed on its own.
Perfect Pairing: Lamb stew, venison, or a quiet evening by the fire.
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Our Selection

At Caviste, we’re proud to host the widest range of Hans Herzog Estate wines in the UK. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant sparkling Cuvée Therese, the bold Tempranillo, or the utterly unique Zweigelt, there’s something to delight every palate.

Why Choose Hans Herzog?

Hans Herzog’s wines are more than a drink—they’re an experience. From the precision of his farming methods to the depth of his winemaking expertise, each bottle tells a story of passion and craftsmanship.

So, if you’re looking for fine wine from New Zealand that breaks the mould, Hans Herzog Estate is the place to start.

Ready to Explore?

Visit us at Caviste or browse online to discover the best Bordeaux blends, Sauvignon Blanc, and other remarkable wines from this exceptional vineyard.