Organic Wines, Nelson, New Zealand

Sunset Valley Vineyard's Winemaker - Ian Newton

In 1992, having completed a Bachelor of Science at Canterbury University and six years working outside the wine industry, I completed a post graduate diploma in Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln University.

Here I developed a strong interest in organic production methods, convinced that the use of chemicals in the production of grapes was not sustainable or even necessary.

What I regard as my real education began with work experiences in vineyards and wineries in Nelson and Wairarapa, New Zealand, and as a winemaker in an organic winery near Geneva, Switzerland.

I am a firm believer that "good wines are made in the vineyard".

Soil health and fertility are key elements in achieving physiologically ripe fruit, as are crop level and vine canopy management.

In the winery we work to produce wines that are a true expression of the vineyard. We concentrate on producing Sauvignon Blanc with ripe tropical fruit characters and good palate weight, and complex, fruity reds with good cellaring potential.

I divide my time between the vineyard and winery, and on most days over the summer you can find me in the sales area on site.