HAWKES BAY VINEYARDS

Alpha Domus wines are produced from grapes grown on our Hawke's Bay vineyards - 20 hectares of premium viticultural land.

Located on the Heretaunga Plains, west of Hastings, these Hawke's Bay vineyards lie 20 km from the coast. Hot, dry summers mean vineyard temperatures consistently reach 30◦C.

 

The region averages 750mm of rain annually. Because the Alpha Domus vineyard is located in a natural rain shadow it receives considerably less rain.

 

With 600mm of silt loam overlaying river gravels, the soil type is ideal for quality wine production. Although it is very free draining and relatively infertile, the small quantity of organic matter ensures that there is an ability to retain some soil moisture and nutrients at required stages in the vine’s annual cycle.

 

 

The estate vineyard is planted to mature Bordeaux, younger Rhone varieties, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, managed to achieve maximum varietal flavours. To bring about the best results each variety is managed according to individual needs through every stage of the growing season. A diverse number of techniques are employed; they include  bud, shoot, second set  and crop thinning. Additionally high density planting is used to force the vines to compete which results in lower yields, greater ripeness, maximum varietal character and colour.