Why New Zealand Rosé?

Because there were not many, at least of any consequence and that we personally liked, when we started our rosé journey. Of course, there are now many rosés made throughout New Zealand from an array of different grape varieties. Our focus however has been on the production of more traditional, subtle Provencal rosé blends that could challenge the best there were on the Cote D’Azur.

We have planted and continue to plant and maintain our rosé vineyards specifically for the production of Indian Summer rosé. We regard ourselves as rosé specialists. This has been our sole focus for a number of years and we feel we are producing exceptional rosé now due to this singular focus. Rosé is our passion and it is a family affair as you will see from our website.

We think Hawkes Bay is the best place in New Zealand to grow the grape varieties that make the kind of rosé we like to drink. We have planted Cinsault and Grenache at Waiana Estate which are the core varietals found in any great Provencal rosé. Hawkes Bay is arguably one of the only places in New Zealand where these varieties perform exceptionally well. We are also the only winery in New Zealand growing these varieties, with the singular focus of producing the best rosé wine that New Zealand can make.

Long, hot, dry summers and cool evenings make the best rosé in our view and that is the Tukituki Valley in Hawkes Bay where our rosé vineyards are located. We are minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the sea air permeates our rosé vineyards. You can smell the sea everywhere you walk.