Hunter's Wines
A Marlborough pioneer since 1979, Hunter's Wines has spent decades putting New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the world map.
Hunter's Wines is a 100% family-owned Marlborough producer with 90 hectares of vines in the Wairau Valley, New Zealand. Founded in 1979 by Ernie Hunter, the estate gained international recognition at the 1986 London Sunday Times Wine Festival. Jane Hunter has led the winery since 1987, exporting to more than 28 countries.
- Located in the Wairau Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand, not Hunter Valley, Australia
- Established in 1979 by Ernie Hunter
- 100% family-owned, led by Jane Hunter (CNZM, OBE) since 1987
- 90 hectares of vineyards in Marlborough
- Produces approximately 100,000 to 120,000 cases per year
- Over 85 to 95% of production exported to more than 28 countries
- Over 200 gold medals from national and international competitions
History and Origins
Hunter's Wines was established in 1979 by Ernie Hunter in Marlborough, New Zealand. The winery is recognized as a pioneer of the Marlborough wine industry. A defining moment came at the 1986 London Sunday Times Wine Festival, where the 1985 Fumé Blanc won international acclaim and helped establish Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on the global stage. Following Ernie Hunter's death, Jane Hunter took over as owner, viticulturist, and managing director in 1987. She has since been awarded both a CNZM and OBE for her contributions to the New Zealand wine industry.
- Founded in 1979 by Ernie Hunter in Marlborough
- 1985 Fumé Blanc won acclaim at the 1986 London Sunday Times Wine Festival
- Jane Hunter has led the estate since 1987
- Recognized as a pioneer of the Marlborough wine industry
Vineyards and Production
Hunter's Wines farms 90 hectares of vineyards in the Wairau Valley within the Marlborough region. The estate produces Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, as well as sparkling wines. Annual production sits at approximately 100,000 to 120,000 cases, with over 85 to 95% exported to more than 28 countries worldwide. The winery has accumulated over 200 gold medals from national and international competitions.
- 90 hectares of vineyards in the Wairau Valley, Marlborough
- Grapes grown: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir
- Produces premium white, red, and sparkling wines
- Exports to more than 28 countries across the globe
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Look it up →Hunter's Wines is best known for its Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, a style associated with the vibrant, aromatic character typical of the Wairau Valley. The estate also produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines as part of its premium range.
- Hunter's Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc$20-30The estate's flagship wine, rooted in the Wairau Valley tradition that gained global recognition in 1986.Find →
- Hunter's Marlborough Chardonnay$25-35Part of Hunter's premium white wine range, showcasing Marlborough fruit from 90 hectares of estate vineyards.Find →
- Hunter's Marlborough Pinot Noir$30-45Represents Hunter's red wine range from one of New Zealand's most celebrated family-owned producers.Find →
- Hunter's Wines is located in the Wairau Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand, not to be confused with Hunter Valley, Australia
- Founded 1979 by Ernie Hunter; Jane Hunter (CNZM, OBE) has been owner and managing director since 1987
- The 1985 Fumé Blanc won acclaim at the 1986 London Sunday Times Wine Festival, a landmark moment for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
- 100% family-owned; 90 hectares under vine; production of approximately 100,000 to 120,000 cases per year
- Over 85 to 95% of production is exported to more than 28 countries