Planted in 1994 on the steep slopes of the Maungawera Valley, the Maude Wines vineyard was one of the first 10 to plant their roots in the wider Otago region.
Dan Dineen is a co-owner and winemaker at the vineyard and although he originally hails from Australia, is a well-respected winemaker in Aotearoa, a talent that is not wasted at Maude. Dineen recounted the origins of Maude Vineyard to REX host Dom George, which was established by his in-laws in the mid-1990s.
Despite Wanaka being relatively unknown as a vineyard area at the time, the pioneering spirit of the founding family has seen the vineyard flourish and become one of the leading names in the wine industry.
He explained how the varied microclimates impact the timing of the grape picking, beginning with the warmer site in Lowburn in early April and ending in Gibson Valley in May. Dineen also expressed his delight over Maude Vineyard's numerous accolades, particularly the East Block Riesling, which has won back-to-back Rose Bowl trophies.
The episode also explores the legacy and future of Maude Vineyard. Dineen is proud that the family business will soon welcome its third generation into the winemaking team. Despite the challenges faced by family enterprises, he credits the success of Maude Vineyard to their ability to "still meet up for a beer at the end of the day."
The conversation concluded with a discussion on the increasing export value of New Zealand wines, and Dineen's hopes for Maude Vineyard's re-entry into the American market.
Listen to the full chat between Dan Dineen and Dominic George above.
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