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The History and Significance of Pyramid Valley

In a magical place where magnificent native birds once roamed and soared, the earth has abundantly produced and the stars have aligned for greatness. This unique site of altitude, limestone, slope, rock, and rich soil is known as the Waikari Estate, which is home to some of the most profound Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the world. In 2018, a new chapter unfolded when the Pyramid Valley brand purchased the Manata Estate in Lowburn, Central Otago, adding exceptional Pinot Noir to their repertoire. Across both sites, the philosophy of biodynamic viticulture and a natural approach to winemaking create handcrafted wines that embody their origin and stand out as truly unique.

A Passionate Journey

Mike and Claudia Elze Weersing embarked on a 15-year quest to find the perfect place to cultivate grapes. In 2000, they found their home in the plot of land near Waikari, which is now the heart of Pyramid Valley. Claudia, a committed biodynamicist with German roots and an American upbringing, played a crucial role in the early years, guiding the spirit of the land. Mike, who studied oenology and viticulture in Burgundy and gained experience across European vineyards and cellars, honed his precise vision and practice for exceptional winemaking.

Recognized Excellence

Together, Mike and Claudia dedicated close to 20 years to creating remarkable wines that have garnered global recognition. Their passion and expertise have been widely acknowledged.

A Dream Realized

In 2017, long-time friends Steve Smith and Brian Sheth fulfilled their shared vision of crafting impeccable wines and creating inspiring experiences to be shared with others. They were honoured to embrace the legacy of Pyramid Valley and set forth on their journey to produce a distinguished family of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

A New Chapter with Huw Kinch

Huw Kinch, the Estate Manager and Winemaker, has led Pyramid Valley's new chapter since 2018. With a decade of experience crafting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in Martinborough, Huw ventured south to explore a fresh expression of these grape varieties at Pyramid Valley.

Biodynamic Principles and Natural Winemaking

At Pyramid Valley, the estates are tended with a holistic approach based on the principles of biodynamics. The vineyards are nurtured according to the unique needs of each site, considering factors such as soil type, aspect, ecosystem, and local climate. This harmony with nature allows the vineyards to flourish.

In the cellar, Pyramid Valley follows natural winemaking principles, utilizing indigenous yeasts, natural fining, and minimal, if any, filtration. The ultimate goal is to guide the wines from the earth to the bottle, ensuring that they truly reflect their origin and speak for themselves.

The Soil and Slopes of Pyramid Valley

The wines of Pyramid Valley are born from the dramatic soils and slopes of two exceptional estates: Waikari Estate in North Canterbury and Manata Estate in Central Otago.

Waikari Estate is characterized by its unique combination of rich, rocky, limestone, and clay-derived soils, situated on high-altitude north and east-facing slopes. With over 80 hectares of land, carefully selected plots of vines are planted where the soils and aspect are ideal for producing exceptional wines.

In 2018, the acquisition of the Manata Estate in Lowburn, Central Otago added a new dimension to Pyramid Valley. This vineyard boasts some of the oldest vines in the region, and its soils, shaped by over 150 years of sensitive human cultivation, market gardening, and irrigation, possess rare distinction. Abundant in natural humus and organic matter, the vineyard has been producing exceptional Pinot Noir since 2002 and is now the home of Pyramid Valley's Central Otago Pinot Noir.

Experience the Essence of Pyramid Valley

Discover the exceptional wines crafted with passion and respect for nature at Pyramid Valley. Immerse yourself in the unique stories and flavours that define their journey.

Explore our curated selection of Pyramid Valley wines and experience the essence of this extraordinary winemaking endeavour.