Yealands Estate Winery
Marlborough District
Yealands Estate Winery, established in 2008 by entrepreneur Peter Yealands, is a prominent winery located in the Marlborough wine region of New Zealand. It is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, employing innovative practices such as using sheep and chickens for natural weed and pest control, establishing wetlands, and utilizing recycled materials for packaging. The winery operates a significant photovoltaic solar cell system, once the largest single solar array in New Zealand, reflecting its dedication to reducing environmental impact. Yealands produces several wine labels, including Babydoll and The Crossings, and has earned acclaim for its Sauvignon Blanc, winning the Best in Show trophy in 2020. The estate spans over 1,000 hectares across the Awatere Valley and includes vineyards acquired through strategic expansion. Despite facing challenges, including a legal conviction related to wine export practices and environmental penalties, Yealands Estate continues to focus on ambitious carbon emission reduction targets. Its blend of innovative viticulture and sustainability makes it a unique destination for wine enthusiasts and environmentally conscious visitors alike.
Plan your trip to New Zealand with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should consider booking tours or tastings in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. The best time to visit is during the harvest period in late summer and early autumn when the vineyard is most active. While exploring, take time to learn about the winery's sustainable practices and solar energy initiatives. Discounts or special offers may be available for group bookings or through the winery's official website. Checking current opening hours and any visitor requirements before planning your visit is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Yealands Estate installed New Zealand's largest single photovoltaic solar array at the time, with a capacity of 412 kW.
- •The winery uses sheep and chickens as natural pest and weed control agents within its vineyards.
- •Yealands won the Best in Show trophy for its Sauvignon Blanc wines in 2020.
- •The winery was involved in a legal case for illegally adding sugar to wines exported to the European Union between 2013 and 2015.
- •Yealands Estate aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2045.
History
Yealands Estate Winery was founded in 2008 by Peter Yealands on coastal land east of Seddon in Marlborough.
It expanded rapidly, acquiring over 1,000 hectares of vineyards in the Awatere Valley and purchasing The Crossings and Crossroads wineries in 2011.
In 2016, the winery sold its Crossroads facility and consolidated grape processing in Marlborough.
In 2018, ownership transferred to Marlborough Lines after a legal issue involving illegal sugar additions to exported wines.
In 2020, the winery sold a large portion of its vineyards to the New Zealand Superannuation Fund to manage debt following the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contact
Phone: 03 575 7618