A perfect location with a hillside facing north-west where the soil is identical to Burgundy, home of the world’s most famous Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. There is a high content of limestone and a small top layer of clay. All these conditions are rare and unique in New Zealand.
In 2012, the perfect spot was finally found in the hills of Maungahina Stud north-east of Masterton, after many years of trying to find the perfect location in the Wairarapa. This was the start of Lime Hill Vineyard.
In the Spring of 2013 the planting of 1.3 hectares of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir started with the vineyard work having minimal interaction.
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The winemaking is done in the most gentle way to guarantee a natural product where all the excellence of the terroir comes into its own.
Lime Hill vineyard is currently a joint venture between Karl Heinz Johner and Raphael Burki.
