Brent Rawstron

Brent Rawstron has always had a life long love of the land. He and his family have grown from having a small vineyard and beef farm in Canterbury, to now include their premium Marlborough vineyard sites.

He has a passion for innovation, while being respectful of tradition and the family values. Brent and Shirley graduated from Lincoln University with a Diploma in Viticulture and Winemaking. Both Shirley and Brent were also awarded the South Island Farmer of the Year, with Excellence in Innovation.

The family take a long-view to business and preserving the land. Both Shirley and Brent believe they are stewards of the land, and guardians of its future. With an ongoing commitment and decades of experience and perspective, Brent and Shirley bring out the best in their land, environment, wine and their people.

Brent and Shirley value relationships with others. They see these relationships as an opportunity to grow and to tell their story. A means to connect, share and embrace.


History
In 1987 Brent and Shirley Rawstron first planted their Pinot Noir (and now Gewurztraminer) on the banks of the Halswell River in Canterbury, New Zealand.  Today, their total vineyard plantings in Canterbury, all planted on north-facing slopes, is 15 acres.
Fueled by their interest to grow different white grape varieties, in 2004 the Rawstrons ventured into Marlborough in search of more suitable vineyards sites. The Rapaura area of the Wairau Valley – a sub-region known for the individual qualities produced by different vineyard sites – immediately caught their attention. The couple now own over 200 acres of vineyards planted to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris.