CRAFTING WILD WINES FROM THE HEART OF WAIRARAPA
At Huntress Wines, we create wines with a deep connection to the Wairarapa region. Our philosophy is simple: wild, pure, and honest.
WILD AT HEART
At Huntress Wines, our winemaking process is a tribute to the untamed spirit of the land. We blend the wisdom of traditional winemaking with modern innovations, creating wines that are unique and deeply reflective of our whenua. By using wild yeasts and embracing techniques like skin fermentation and minimal filtration, we craft wines that speak of their origin and push the boundaries of conventional winemaking. We handle our wines with the lightest touch, using older French oak barriques to enhance texture, tension, and longevity, allowing the quality fruit to shine through in every bottle.
INNOVATIVE SPIRIT
My commitment to innovation is showcased in each vintage at Huntress Wines. I am inspired anew each year, crafting wines that may vary in variety based on the season’s inspirations and the best fruit available. This approach allows me to continuously adapt and refine my techniques to best express the characteristics of our selected grapes and terroir. We source our handpicked fruit from vineyards across the Wairarapa and Hawke's Bay, regions renowned for their rich soils and diverse climates. By forging strong relationships with growers who share my dedication to organic and biodynamic practices, we ensure that every bottle not only captures the essence of our land but also supports sustainable agriculture and respects the vital balance of our environment. This innovative spirit is balanced with a respect for time-honored methods, ensuring that every bottle of Huntress wine remains a true reflection of our heritage and commitment to quality.
A CULINARY JOURNEY
My wines are crafted to complement the wild and bountiful kai (food) of Aotearoa, turning each meal into a celebration of local flavours. There is so much joy in local and seasonal food pairings. My philosophy extends beyond the vineyard to embrace the local producers and artisans who enrich our community. Whether it’s pairing our wines with local kaimoana or enjoying a locally sourced charcuterie board, we celebrate the bounty of Wairarapa with every bottle.
Pinot Noir
Best enjoyed with friends and a charcuterie board or alongside a hearty meal like venison or wild pork. This wine’s robust structure complements savory and spiced dishes beautifully. Try it with a cheese board featuring local cheeses, like the washed rind cheese from Featherston’s 'C’est Cheese', which is bathed in Huntress Pinot Noir brine.
Waikoa (Sauvignon Blanc)
Perfect for a warm day, served lightly chilled with fresh kaimoana. Pair it with a dish of creamed paua and pasta or a platter of crayfish, seasoned simply with lemon and butter. Explore our local kaimoana offerings through my friends at Tora Collective.
Chardonnay
Huntress proudly presents its first every Chardonnay release, a fresh, vibrant expression crafted from a select parcel in Hawkes Bay. Enjoy this sunny wine with haloumi or a succulent pork dish under the warm sun.
Waihonga (Amber)
A riesling & pinot gris blend, Waihonga is a wine that shows off honey hues and layers of nectarine, baked spices, and tangelo skin. This complex wine pairs well with dishes that echo its deep fruitiness and refined tannins, such as semi-hard cheeses like Gouda.
Waikura (Rosé)
Named for the radiant red hues of Wairarapa's dawn and dusk skies, this rosé is dry and spirited. Aromatic with notes of hibiscus, rosehip, and raspberry jelly, and a palate offering crunchy vibrant berry and subtle rose, this rosé is perfect lightly chilled, pairing excellently with platter delights like cured meats and sourdough.
Kuratea (Chilled Red Pinot Noir)
With a savoury nose and a palate bursting with juicy fruit flavours, this wine is delightful when chilled and served with lighter meals or tapas. Pair it with dishes featuring wild fruits, cold meats elements, or even a Black Forest chocolate treat.
