Greywacke

Greywacke Winery: Marlborough's Essence of Terroir and Craft

Greywacke (pronounced Greywacky), named after New Zealand's most abundant bedrock found throughout Marlborough's alluvial vineyard soils, is the acclaimed Marlborough label of the Judd family. Established in 2009, this truly family affair, led by a small, dedicated team from their Omaka Valley HQ, exports its exceptional wines worldwide while upholding a core ethos of "keep it simple and hands-on." Kevin Judd is the famed founding winemaker at Cloudy Bay.

"Greywacke wines attract an almost cult-following" - Bob Campbell MW

"outstanding producer" - Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com

Greywacke Philosophy: Simplicity, Authenticity, Sustainability

At Greywacke, the focus is on optimising the inherent potential of Marlborough’s sunny South Pacific climate. They meticulously source fruit from mature vineyards in prime viticultural sites. A number of the vineyards are owned by the Sutherland family (Kevin Judd's old friend from his Cloudy Bay times), while complementary grape parcels are acquired from additional select sites, all located within these sub-regions All vineyards are sustainably managed, ensuring a healthy environment for future generations. Crop levels are carefully restricted to enhance flavour concentration, while a long, cool growing season naturally yields fruit with incredible varietal intensity and bright, natural acidity. Meticulous canopy management ensures optimal fruit exposure for perfect flavour ripeness, textural richness, and ideal acid balance. 

The Art of Winemaking: Handcrafted & Minimal Intervention

Kevin Judd is one of Marlborough’s pioneer winemakers whose career is intrinsically linked with the global profile of New Zealand wine. Since May 2021, he is supported by Richelle Tyney. Richelle has been managing the winemaking program and championing our wines globally through tastings. She firmly believes in minimal intervention, ensuring every wine authentically expresses its turangawaewae (Māori: a unique 'place to stand'). The winemaking philosophy centers on achieving very specific wine styles for each variety, with a common objective: delivering concentrated flavors and a harmonious balance of texture and acidity. They embrace minimal-intervention techniques to craft wines brimming with personality and individuality, aiming for subtle, ripe, and utterly delicious drinking styles. Extensive use of wild (indigenous) yeast fermentations is key to incorporating savory depth into the flavor profile and building structure and intensity in the mouthfeel.

The Greywacke Collection: Distinctive Styles

The Greywacke range primarily showcases two iconic varieties: Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The Sauvignon Blanc is notably produced in two distinctly different styles, offering unique expressions of this varietal. The lineup is beautifully complemented by limited releases of Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. Each distinctive Greywacke label features Kevin Judd’s signature vineyard photography, reinforcing the deep connection between our wines and their place of origin.