Welcome to Eaton Wines
Our Winemaking Philosophy is very simple.
Our winemaking is about respecting the fruit, allowing wild yeasts to
ferment the wines with no other additions.
When it comes to the wines, it is a team effort.
All of the handwork done on our sites is done by the family. Harvest is a joint operation with
growers and their children as we try to capture the special ambiance of each site.
Eaton Wines was established in 2014 after the families' departure from the TerraVin brand which they had established in 1999.
Mike's involvement in the New Zealand wine industry goes right back to 1981 when Marlborough was just beginning its surge onto the international wines scene. Along with his wife Jo, Mike established some of New Zealand’s most renowned Pinot Noir vineyards (Clayvin, Clay Hills, Outpost, Calrossie) and the TerraVin wine brand.
Consulting over 1500ha Mike manages the nutrition and disease programs for premium growers throughout Marlborough and Nelson. From among these growers, Mike selects small parcels from exceptional sites and makes wines in small batches to best reflect their unique characteristics.
These selected areas are hand-tended by Mike and his two sons Harrison and Blake.
“The Eaton Family Wines are the epitome of the expression ‘hand-made’ and every single decision is thought through with forensic attention to detail.”
- Mathew Jukes
“The winemaking is quirky and the resulting style left of center, so these bottlings would suit those who love unconventional wines.”
- Rebecca Gibb, Vinous Media
Aromas of stone-fruit and cashew and warm bread.
The palate is seamless, full-bodied richness which is supported by finely focused acidity.
Forte – The use of Cigar and large 600L barrels, extended skin contact and lees stirring means the wine is very expressive.
A distinctive wine that is not intended to be subtle.
Thistle Hill is a unique vineyard site that was once mineral rich seasbed that has been lifted up by constant earthquake activity to form a gentle north-facing hillside some 230m above seas level on the eastern coast of Marlborough New Zealand.
A special reflection of Sauvignon Blanc
Hillside grown low yielding Pinot Noir from the Omaka Valley, New Zealand. 1Kg/vine, hand harvested and fermented in 3 small open-top fermenters with 25-50% whole bunch components. Aged if french oak for 9 months before blending and bottling unfined and unfiltered.
Reviews
Raupo Chardonnay 2020
"Aromas of Brazil and Cashew nut, baked stone fruits, lees, and peaches. ... palate is seamless, full-bodied, rich. Ready to enjoy upon purchase and through 2025+."
Cameron Douglas MS - 93 pts
Cuvée Forte 2021
A lovely purity, freshness and lift with a core varietal signature of citrus and dried herb, lemon and quince, peach and a fine lees with barrel spice complexity. .... salivating acidity and a lengthy generous finish
Cameron Douglas MS - 96pts
TOP WINES of 2023
Thistle Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Thistle Hill Vineyard is a serious, boundary pushing Sauvignon Blanc, Firm but balanced acidity gives the wine a real purpose and seriousness.
91/100 VINOUS - Rebecca Gibb
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