Maori Point vineyard
Māori Point Wines is one of Central Otago's most unique boutique wineries, where science, nature and handcrafted winemaking come together to create wines of exceptional purity and character. Nestled on the banks of the Mata Au (Clutha River) near Tarras, the family owned estate is surrounded by snow capped mountains, ancient glacial terraces and breathtaking landscapes that shape every wine produced. Just a short drive from Cromwell and Wānaka, Māori Point offers an authentic wine experience unlike anywhere else in Central Otago.
Founded in 2002 by scientists Dr John Harris and Dr Marilyn Duxson, Māori Point was established with a desire to better understand the relationship between the vineyard, the ecosystem and the wines it creates. Named after the historic site where Māori prospectors searched for gold during the 1860s, the estate combines scientific knowledge with traditional, hands on viticulture to produce wines that genuinely reflect this extraordinary landscape.
Every vine is carefully tended by hand using sustainable farming practices, low yielding vineyards and minimal intervention winemaking. Native wild yeasts drive the Pinot Noir fermentations, while the wines are crafted without fining or filtration wherever possible, preserving the vineyard's natural expression. Māori Point is renowned for its elegant Central Otago Pinot Noir, alongside exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rosé and its acclaimed Gold Digger Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wine, each expressing the unique soils, climate and microflora of the estate.
Unlike many wineries, Māori Point grows, makes and bottles every wine on site, allowing complete control from vineyard to glass. Visitors are welcomed into an intimate cellar door beside the winery and barrel hall, where they can explore the vineyard, discover the winemaking process and enjoy premium tastings overlooking the Clutha River. The experience offers a rare opportunity to meet the people who grow the grapes and craft every bottle by hand.
A visit to Māori Point Wines is an opportunity to discover one of Central Otago's true hidden gems. Combining spectacular alpine scenery, scientific curiosity, handcrafted wines and genuine hospitality, Māori Point delivers an unforgettable wine experience that captures the purity, beauty and individuality of the Central Otago wine region.
