MATAWHERO

Matawhero has been part of Gisborne’s vinous landscape since 1968, when it was established by the late Bill Irwin to supply grapes to the local winemakers. Bill was a visionary who defied the conventional thinking of the time. He pioneered the introduction of new varieties and clones to the country, and in doing so changed the face of Kiwi winemaking. In the 1970s Bill’s son, Denis, launched the Matawhero brand, using his father’s grapes and imparting his own colourful style to a selection of excellent and distinctive wines. His Gewürztraminer won international acclaim, ending up in Buckingham Palace.

When, in 2008, Denis decided to sell Matawhero, local winegrowers Richard and Kirsten Searle grabbed the opportunity and purchased the iconic winery. The Searles have revitalised the operation. The home vineyard has been replanted with new clones, along with a number of exciting new varieties, and the production facilities were upgraded. Kirsten Searle puts it thus: ‘Like the Irwins, who passed on a heritage of innovation, we strive to produce individual wines that are shining examples of their Gisborne terroir.’