Kirk Bray and Paul Pujol, two classmates from a wine program at Lincoln in 1999, began scouting potential vineyard sites in Waipara. They got their start when Kirk’s girlfriend introduced him to an opportunity to acquire land from an old sheep farm. Paul bought two paddocks but sold them when he relocated to Alsace. This sparked an interest in Kirk, who recognized the area’s potential for grape cultivation.
After working in the Pfalz region of Germany with Rainer Lingenfelder, Kirk became determined to establish his own vineyard. In 2003, he purchased an 8-hectare plot. Notably, he found that this parcel had not experienced frost for a decade, situated at an elevation of 100 meters where cold air drains down to the river. The soil composition is primarily gravel, with water sources deep below.
Kirk initially planted Syrah in 2005, which he found suited the gravels, unlike the clay soils where it hadn’t thrived. He utilized a mass selection clone from Alan Limmer, a pioneer of Syrah in New Zealand. Over time, he also introduced Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris to his vineyard, originally sourcing Pinot from nearby clay soils.
Upon returning from Germany, he planted half his vineyard with Riesling, but later responded to market demands by removing half of this crop. Although his farming isn’t strictly organic, it practices close-to-organic methods. Kirk applies one herbicide round early in the season, then mows the vine rows, ensuring a biodiverse environment.
His wines are crafted with wild fermentation and all grapes are hand-picked.
The Wines
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Georges Road Les Terrasses Rosé 2024
12.3% alcohol. A bright and juicy rosé made from early-picked Syrah, featuring strawberries and cranberries with a vibrant finish. 90/100 -
Georges Road Block Three Riesling 2023
12% alcohol. Fermented partly in old barrels, this dry, energetic Riesling boasts crystalline citrus and apricot, alongside subtle mineral notes. 92/100 -
Georges Road Selection Pinot Gris 2023
13.5% alcohol. Made from whole bunch pressing with refreshing mandarin, pear, and a rounded texture. A stylish wine with a touch of cherry. 92/100 -
Georges Road L’Etranger Pinot Noir 2022
13.5% alcohol. Sourced from Central Otago, this Pinot Noir combines black cherries, spice, and a vibrant palate, highlighting its textural elegance. 94/100 -
Georges Road Cuvée 43 Syrah 2021
Crafted from two close picks, this Syrah has balanced black pepper, plum, and cherry fruit with good tannin and a polished finish. 94/100
For more information, visit the Georges Road website.