Growing up on the family farm, David and his brother Mark were handy ‘free labour’ when their father Ian became one of the first farmers to diversify by planting grapes. After a stint overseas, including vintages in Bordeaux, David returned to Dartmoor in 1986 and with Mark and Tony Bish, decided it would be a bit of fun to produce their own label. Sacred Hill was born.
Tony is a member of the original Sacred Hill trio. He was bitten by the winemaking bug in the early 80’s (realising surfing really wasn’t a career option). Now, 32 vintages later Tony is one of New Zealand’s most respected winemakers, with a focus on quality and texture that has seen Sacred Hill wines escalate to the front of the New Zealand wine scene.
WINE PICK: Special Selection Riflemans Chardonnay
Kel is passionate about Marlborough – widely celebrated as one of the premium wine regions of the world. He is responsible for Sacred Hill’s internationally acclaimed Marlborough wines and particularly loves seeing the region’s distinctive Sauvignon Blanc enjoyed and savoured worldwide.
WINE PICK: Sacred Hill Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
After Kate’s study at Lincoln University she set out to learn every facet of the winery; getting technical in the laboratory before doing a business internship and also a couple of vintages overseas! She eventually found her way back home and to Sacred Hill where she spent a few years as the Cellar Supervisor before taking the post of Assistant Winemaker. Kate’s winemaking philosophy aligns perfectly with Sacred Hill’s to create wines which are the most natural expression of the land they come from.
Sacred Hill’s distinctive wines are a true expression of the vineyards they come from. Our viticulture teams in Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay explore their regional expertise and partner with our winemakers to deliver wines with distinct layers, textures and flavours.