Producer Profile

Unkel

Rob Burley's journey into winemaking began with his fascination for scents and flavors, initially considering a career in perfumery before pivoting to wine. Alongside his wife Kate, they embarked on a global adventure that eventually led them back to their homeland, New Zealand. After studying winemaking in Australia, Rob worked for large wineries, which initially dampened his passion until he discovered the wines of Saša Radikon and Jean-Francois Ganevat. This reignited his enthusiasm, prompting the couple to travel through Eastern Europe and assist with harvests in the Loire Valley before landing at Terroirs, a natural wine hotspot in London.

unkel winemaker

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Where The Wines Come From

Upper Moutere

Upper Moutere, situated in the Tasman District of New Zealand's South Island, is emerging as a notable region for natural winemaking. With its maritime climate, diverse soils, and sustainable farming practices, Upper Moutere provides an ideal terroir for producing expressive and vibrant wines. Natural winemakers in the region prioritize organic and biodynamic methods, cultivating grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc with minimal intervention. By eschewing chemical additives and focusing on natural fermentation, they produce wines that reflect the purity and character of the land. Upper Moutere's natural wines are known for their elegance, complexity, and balance, with whites exhibiting crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors, and reds showcasing ripe berry notes and silky textures. As the demand for authentic and terroir-driven wines continues to grow, Upper Moutere stands as a shining example of New Zealand's commitment to sustainable winemaking and quality.