Maori Point vineyard
Māori Point Vineyard is a hidden gem in Central Otago, beautifully positioned on a bend of the Mata-Au (Clutha River), near Tarras. This land carries deep historical roots — once a site where Māori prospectors panned for gold in the 1860s, it is now home to two families who craft wines that reflect both the land’s heritage and its unique natural character.
The vineyard is built on a foundation of science, sustainability, and respect for nature. The owners, both scientists and winegrowers, have created a thriving ecosystem. Native plants flourish, honeybees move freely through the vines, and wildflowers and aromatic herbs are grown between the rows, then mulched to nourish the soil naturally. Every vine is hand-tended with care, and yields are kept intentionally low to ensure purity and flavour concentration.
Māori Point embraces a minimal-intervention winemaking style. Their winery, located right beside the vines, allows for immediate, gentle handling of fruit. Wild native yeasts lead fermentation, and the wines — especially their renowned Pinot Noir — are not fined or filtered. This results in elegant, textured wines with a distinct sense of place.
The region’s extreme conditions — hot, dry days, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils — contribute to the expressive character of their wines. Pinot Noir, Rosé, and aromatic whites from Māori Point show remarkable clarity, softness, and intensity.
Latitude 45 Luxury Wine Tours is proud to offer exclusive access to Māori Point Vineyard, a destination not open to the general public. Guests can walk the vineyard, learn from the families behind the label, and experience wines that reflect the land's history, ecology, and soul.
