THE HOME BLOCK
is where it all began
As one of the first to plant Pinot Noir, in 1980, we now lay claim to the oldest Pinot Noir vines not only Martinborough, but also New Zealand.
Located on the Martinborough terrace, the age of these vines is now beginning to show a real sense of terroir. These vines have a massive root network which extends so deep into the soil that they are self-sustaining.
ESTABLISHED BY PIONEERS
In 1978, Soil scientist Derek Milne concluded in that Martinborough’s climate was astonishingly similar to Burgundy, France. His vision created a new industry, and the small sleepy district found new life as a unique wine village.
Established in 1980, Martinborough Vineyard is a winery created by true pioneers, driven as much by passion as logic, and this attitude prevails today.
Marie Zelie Hermance Frere marries William Beetham Jr and moves to Masterton, New Zealand. She misses her native France so much that within a year plants a small vineyard to remind herself of home.
1882
Marie Zelie plants 3,000 cuttings of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Hermitage on three acres at their estate Highmore. In 1908, prohibition is adopted in the Wairarapa. The vines are pulled out by this time.
1892
Derek Milne produces for the New Zealand DSIR a report recognising that the closest New Zealand climatic analogue to Burgundy was to be found in the small rain shadow centred on the township of Martinborough.
1978
Derek Milne, Duncan Milne, Claire Campbell, Russell Schultz and Sue Schultz establish Martinborough Vineyard planting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay along with Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc. In 1983 Derek Milne marries Margaret Creech – Marie Zelie’s great great niece.
1980
Martinborough Vineyard dominates the Air New Zealand Wine Awards receiving trophies for Champion Wine of the Show for: Best Pinot Noir, Best Chardonnay, Best Riesling, Best Müller-Thurgau.
1989
Trophy for Best Pinot Noir in the World at the London International Wine & Spirit Competition.
1997
Inaugural Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2003 released.
2006
Home Block Chardonnay is named Decanter Magazine's 'Best Chardonnay Outside Burgundy'
2012
Gold for our Pinot Noir at the Decanter World Wine Awards.
2017
Marie Zelie 2010 is a top scorer in Decanter Magazine's 'Best Pinot Noir Outside Burgundy' with 98 Points.
2018
Gold again for our Pinot Noir at the Decanter World Wine Awards.
2022
Gold yet again for our Pinot Noir at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Move into our new brand home, The Runholder.
2023
Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2019 is released.
2024