Pyramid Valley was founded in 2000 by Mike and Claudia Weersing after a global search for the perfect clay and limestone soils to grow pinot noir and chardonnay. The aim was to make wines that breathe of their place through biodynamic viticulture and sensitive winemaking.
The home vineyard has been established according to rules that Mike grew to respect and inherently to trust during his time studying and working in Burgundy: pinot noir and chardonnay have been planted on clay-limestone soils on scarp slopes, at a density of 10,000-12,000 vines per hectare. The vineyard has been biodynamically managed from inception.
Aotearoa New Zealand Fine Wine Estates recently purchased the property from the Weersing’s and will increase the plantings on the property to achieve Mike Weersing’s original vision for the estate with an ongoing focus on chardonnay and pinot noir. AONZ also continues to work with the Pyramid Valley biodynamic principles as the remaining suitable land on the property is planted.
The Vineyard team Struan, Luke and Madi, along with their dogs Lova and Billy remain on board to manage the vineyards, and Huw Kinch and his family have joined the team as the Estate Manager and Winemaker. The aim of Pyramid Valley continues to be making wines that breathe of their place.
The rustic cellar door is open by appointment during the summer months, $50 per person for a tasting and tour of the estate.
Pyramid Valley
548 Pyramid Valley Rd
Waikari 7491, New Zealand
If your pinot was a music artist, who would it be?
Queen
Best music to listen to during vintage?
Hip Hop and Funk
What year was your first pinot vintage, and what song best represents it?
2006 Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody
When we come to visit you, which song should we listen to when we’re driving into your winery? Which one should we listen to when we’re driving away?
Fly My Pretties: Singing in My Soul
Wild Cherry: Play That Funky Music
Where do you pinot?
At the dinner table
Your pinots pair best with…
Wild game and friends
When no one is watching, you drink…
Steinlager
