Since Hermann Seifried and his New Zealand wife Agnes first planted grapes in the Moutere Valley near Nelson, Seifried has grown to become one of New Zealands most sustainable family-owned wineries.

With 14 vinifera varieties, on two hectares of land, they began the South Islands modern commercial wine industry. Hermann and Agnes were true pioneers, experimenting with what classical European varieties may do well in this untested climate and terroir. Today it has grown from very modest beginnings to become one of New Zealands most sustainable wineries, producing the very best Nelson has to offer. The site that Herman and Agnes chose for their new vineyards was perfect in terms of location. It is surrounded by mountains to the east, west and south (Richmond and Western Ranges) and the Tasman Sea to the north, which moderates the temperate climate throughout the year. The sunshine here was also a real drawcard, with an average of over 2,400 hours of sunshine a year, earning Nelson its reputation as the Sunshine Capital of New Zealand. 1976 was the first harvest with five distinctive varietal wines being made – Riesling, Sylvaner, Chardonnay, Mller-Thurgau and Refosco.

In 2014 Agnes and Hermann were recognised for their contribution to the New Zealand grape and wine industry by being inducted as Fellows of New Zealand Winegrowers, one of the New Zealand wine industrys greatest acknowledgements. This was the first time in its history that a husband and wife team were recognised, and the first time a woman has been honoured.

In 2016 the winery celebrated 40 years since the first harvest. The last four decades have seen significant change, with the New Zealand industry now recognised as world leading, particularly with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, but also for Syrah, Grner Veltliner and Riesling. Today Seifried farm over 250 hectares of vineyards, across nine sustainably-accredited vineyard locations scattered throughout the Nelson region, and all of their three children are actively involved in the business.

Vinification

The Edens Road vineyard is an extremely stony area where water and nutrient levels are low. This helps us to restrict plant vigour and to crop at low levels. To further enhance the aromatics, leaves were removed to allow light penetration and air movement to the fruiting zone. This vineyard is situated 15 km from the coast and is sheltered from the south by the Richmond ranges. The ‘soil’ is a combination of rocks and boulders which is very hard on farm equipment but vital for holding the warmth of Nelsons sun – and ripening the Gruner Veltliner fruit.

Grner Veltliner is the most widely planted white grape variety in Austria, which is Hermann Sefrieds homeland. Seifried were thrilled to finally be able to grow Grner Veltliner in New Zealand after it had passed though the long quarantine process. In 2008 they chose their Brightwater vineyard to plant a small area of these very special vines. More recently, they have established Grner Veltliner vines in the Edens Road vineyard too.

Tasting Notes

The Seifried Nelson Gruner Veltliner has fresh apple and elderflower aromas on the nose. The palate has the slightest hint of white pepper and autumn quince flavours coming through, leaving a smooth lingering finish.

Drink with schnitzel, pork and apple or Pho.