Neck of the Woods Master Abel Pinot Noir

We’re inspired by pioneers. By those who aren’t afraid to take risks and do things differently. Who stay true to what they believe. And we dedicate every one of our vintages to a groundbreaking, rule-defying character that followed their passion and forged their own path.

Back in the 70s, a crafty Kiwi traveller returning from France tried to smuggle in a small cutting of vine. Tucked in his gumboot of all places. Sadly for him, an eager customs officer (and aspiring wine maker) named Malcom Abel confiscated it.

The cutting had been stolen from the holy grail of Pinot – Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy. Abel recognised its significance right away and paid for it to be put through quarantine. A few months later, the cutting was released. Abel planted his prized Pinot clone, and died shortly after. But his legend lives on. The Abel clone, or the gumboot clone as it’s affectionally known, now makes up a large portion of New Zealand’s Pinot Noir.

Our Pinot Noir owes its very existence to Malcom Abel. And we’re inspired by his willingness to go his own way and take a risk for the sake of making his dream a reality.