The Winery Block

Torlesse Wines grape intake includes the Winery Block Pinot Noir plus other vineyards which are spread throughout the Waipara region, ranging from the gravel Weka Creek terraces, the heavy clay Waipara Flats and to the north facing slopes of the Waipara hills. This gives us a diversity of growing conditions which imparts a range of characters and complexity to our wine styles. All Torlesse vineyards are netted for bird protection and we strive towards sustainable vineyard practices. We also purchase parcels of grapes from selected contract growers in Waipara.

The McKenzie Vineyard

Set on the terraces of the Weka Creek, accessed off McKenzies Road. It is jointly owned by 3 Torlesse Shareholders, the Pharis, Fabris and Tomlin families and provides a significant component for most of the Torlesse Wines. The McKenzie is planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer. Two Bordeaux reds, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are planted on the free draining and "hot" bottom terrace, with Pinot Noir being planted on the heavier soils of Weka Creek's upper terrace.

Waipara Fields

Just one kilometre above Omihi Road, the vineyard lies on the northwest-facing slopes to catch the afternoon sun. It's an excellent vineyard site and is owned by Ann and Gary Fabris. The Waipara Fields vineyard is planted with a range of Pinot Noir clones and also with Sauvignon Blanc. Both these grapes produce the icon wine styles that New Zealand is noted for.

The Rayner Vineyard

Located on Omihi Road, part of State Highway one (SH1) which runs through the heart of the Waipara Valley. Owned by Kym and Maggie Rayner, Kym is a shareholder in Torlesse and also our senior winemaker. This vineyard has some of the oldest vines in Waipara, still on their own roots and phylloxera free. Located on the valley floor, it has heavier clay loams that produce wines with body and flavour. Black grapes include Pinot Noir, and Petite Verdot and white grapes planted are Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. It is a cool climate.