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Butterworth Estate

The Butterworths, a family entwined in New Zealand’s farming and sailing history, are the custodians of the Julicher Vineyard situated on the iconic soils of Te Muna.

“We loved the wine so much we bought the vineyard” jokes Brad, however, he’s deadly serious. Brad & Warren aspire to see their Te Muna estate recognised as one of the very best producers in the world.

BUTTERWORTH TE MUNA ESTATE

Julicher Vineyard is set to expand and evolve under the new ownership of Brad and Warren Butterworth.

The Butterworths are better known for sailing than for wine but both are passionate about wine. Their great great grandfather W. Heathcote Jackman was a pioneering grape grower in New Zealand at Whakapirau in the Kaipara Harbour, Northland, in the late 1800s. That property remains in family hands, minus the vines which died many years ago, due to phylloxera. They purchased the Te Muna Road vineyard and winery in 2019, and have since put expansion plans in place.
The Full Story
Winemaker

Martin Bell

Martin began working in the wine industry in 2004, after graduating with a Master of Science degree, majoring in Biotechnology, from the University of Otago.

As well as working vintages around the world, Martin has spent nine years in Marlborough. There he used his degrees and gained experience working on the winemaking side of research and development projects as well as premium winemaking.

Martin specialises in using the natural biology of the yeast to enhance the flavour and mouthfeel of our wines.

Vineyard Manager

Kyra Day

Kyra, a local, grew up in the Wairarapa and with over 20 years experience in the industry, is one of the most well respected Viticulturists in the region.

With a shared belief that great wines are made in the vineyard, Kyra's focus and vision for the longterm sustainability and development of our vineyard is inspiring.

Operations Manager

Carla Burns

Carla has lived and worked in Martinborough for over thirty years and is highly respected in the wine industry with an in-depth and unique knowledge. She established her own vineyard in 1989, producing high-quality Pinot Noir.
Carla brings a customer-focused and very pragmatic approach to her roles and has built extensive local and international networks. Her background and business skill set enables her to deliver quality services.

Away from the office, Carla has the love of her life, a growling yellow Ducati. She’s always loved bikes, she’s always loved the Ducati thunder. But if she has one small quibble, it’s too quiet; it needs to be louder.

BUTTERWORTH TE MUNA ESTATE

Our Wines

Renowned sailors, the Butterworth Family are the new custodians of Julicher Vineyard, planted in the iconic soils of Te Muna. All of our wines are Estate produced, made with a light touch by winemaker and biotechnologist, Martin Bell.

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