Owner
Buffy and Michael Eaton
Appellation
Waipara
Distribution Area
Delaware, New Jersey, and New York
Varieties
Pinot Noir
Vineyard
The vineyard is set in a park-like environment on the North West face of the Waipara Valley’s eastern hills below the Teviotdale range. Dubbed the golden mile, as the aspect gains high amounts of light and heat. The soils, which are marl (active limestone), add a fine minerality to the finished wines. Vineyards are planted from spacious 2.7m x 1.2m through to high density 1.8m x 1m rows. Since the first plantings New Zealand viticulture equipment has adapted to enable higher density planting particularly beneficial to pinot noir and chardonnay.
The property sits at Latitude 43 with an Elevation 93m / 305ft above sea level (midpoint of the property). While high up on the limestone slopes with a stunning out look across the Waipara Valley the estate does not escape frosts. Each spring they must take on Jack Frost to protect the vines by circulating warm air from an LPG burner behind the tractor. Canopy management is vigorous with the aim of keeping the constant spring and summer growth open and light – letting the nor-westers and North Canterbury sun keep the vines disease free.
About Mountford Estate
Established in 1991 by Buffy and Michael Eaton, Mountford Estate is a boutique vineyard and winery set on a hillside in a stunning park-like environment in the Waipara wine region of North Canterbury. They chose their specific site for its elevation at 305ft and active limestone soils. The story behind Mountford is one of passion, shown simply by tasting their wine. With attention to every detail, the result is an elegant, stylish and unforgettable experience.
Initially planted in 1991, and added to in 2000, 2008 and 2013, the total plantings now sit at 23 acres. The 21-year-old vineyard grows on an area of land dubbed ‘The Golden Mile.’ A high amount of heat and light, combined with the soil makeup are just some of the reasons for the site being selected.
Mountford Estate wines are of character and quality through watchful, non-interventionist winemaking. A combination of new and traditional techniques and technology are used. The winery uses native yeasts, low sulfur and no fining or filtration, where possible.
2 Commerce Dr. Suite 3 Moorestown, NJ 08057
Office 800.245.0184
Fax 856.985.5848
