Description
About Churton Wines
Named after the farm where Sam grew up, Churton was built on a foundation of family values and respect for the land. Having strong environmental empathy led us to set up Churton with organic roots; creating a legacy for future generations.
The reins have been handed over to the second generation Ben and Jack who bring youth and innovation to the Churton vineyard and cellar.
For the past 30 years we have farmed the land with a delicate hand. Long before it was fashionable, we approached the vineyard with strong ecological values, a focus on biodiversity and adopted biodynamic principles. The wonderful diversity of the property from its mature trees and native bush to the river bed and pasture land first attracted us to this special place. Churton is now home to our children and grandchildren. A herd of Red Devon cattle, swarms of bees, chickens and the family dogs also call this place home.
“Looking after the farm’s biology whether that’s above or below ground is part of Churton’s essence, from the soil microbiology to the birdlife and insects The many elements of the property combine to create the spiritual essence of Churton and the liquid expression of our place.
Vines are the heart of Churton, covering 22 hectares of our 51-hectare farm. The vineyard is farmed biodynamically and is certified organic. We truly believe that biodynamic farming is the best farming philosophy to express the essence of our place.
The vineyard is planted according to the rise and fall topography of our undulating landscape. Covering the north-east facing hillside, the 17 vineyard blocks enjoy the gentle rays of the morning sun and avoid the harsh afternoon rays, allowing our vines to ease their grapes to the finish line, which creates wines of greater complexity and refinement.
While the New Zealand sun can be strong in summer, Marlborough is a cool climate for grape growing and frost can be issue. Lucky for us, the eastern boundary of the vineyard falls steeply away to the Omaka river, 50 metres below, allowing frosts to literally fall off a cliff.
While Marlborough’s alluvial valley floor is free draining, on our hillside, there is a deep layer of clay-based loess over the alluvial gravels. This denser soil type has a greater water-holding capacity and we aim to dry farm, if the season allows. The detailed nature of our farming results in healthy soils, healthy vines and delicious wines.
