Considering their cutting edge approach with a thoughtful touch, Hillersden is onto something big.

Hillersden Winery

New Zealand offers a cooler climate with clay and rocky soil. This combination, when executed correctly, gives Sauvignon Blanc its fruity aromas and crisp flavors. My first experience with a beautiful bottle of Hillersden Sauvignon Blanc proved this to be true. When first opened, the wine had subtle hints of eucalyptus, lemongrass and thyme — very refreshing and doesn’t immediately fall flat.

In the spirit of wine, I feel inclined to share that I’ve been studying to be become a sommelier recently AND I’ll be launching my personal wine blog this week! Go me, right? In all my massive studying, I’ve learned to be on the lookout for wines that may start out initially strong, but fall flat quickly. It’s more common than people realize and it’s super cool to see Hillersden avoid this common letdown. I’ve been sipping it for well over an hour now and it’s only changing for the better. The acidity is now at the forefront and I’m getting a bit more pear and apricot on the nose. This is a great transformation for such a young winery.

Going Organic

They’ve been around since 2008 and seem eager and motivated to grow, already experimenting with young vines and looking at new soils and microclimates — impressive!

From what I’ve read about Hillersden, it’s all about their community, sustainability and their carbon footprint. They’re using a combination of gravity and solar water pumps for irrigation and improving fertility with seaweed (kelp) sprays and organic fertilizer. Their outlook is just as refreshing as their wine.

The Winemaker

Adam Kubrock says he owes his brother everything for introducing him to wine. Six years ago, he left his home town Walla Walla, Washington to explore New Zealand and fell in love with the land… he’s been there ever since! I’ve heard vacations can turn into homes, especially when when wine is involved. Most interesting of all, Adam’s new home is in the Wairau Valley, which means “many waters” — the same  of his original home in Walla Walla!

I found it really interesting that Adam was from a place and moved to a place with the same translation.

Walla Walla and Wairau Valley both mean: “many waters” for the natives. I guess it was meant to be.  Just ask Adam…

Cheers.