Our Vineyards

River Farm is privileged to own family-operated vineyards in both the Wairau and Awatere Valleys of Marlborough. Each valley boasts distinct variances in soil composition and climate, contributing to the creation of unique fruit flavors that define their individual characteristics.

Awatere Valley Vineyards

  • Starborough Terrace

    Adjacent to Seddon and nestled on the terraces along the southern bank of the Awatere River, the Starborough Terrace Vineyard benefits from an ideal location to capture the exceptional fruit qualities of the Awatere Valley. The soils, comprised of wind-blown loess layered over alluvial stony river gravel deposits, offer moderate fertility and excellent drainage, perfectly suited for cultivating lush, ripe, and concentrated Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris.

  • Long Lane

    Situated to the east of Starborough and closer to the sea, this vineyard benefits from the cooling influence of easterly winds blowing directly off the Pacific Ocean. This cooling effect extends fruit maturation and development, resulting in ripe fruit characteristics while preserving a refreshing and focused acidity.

    The lower Dashwood soils on the northern bank of the Awatere River consist of alluvial gravel silt loams layered over deeper deposits of river stones. These soils exhibit low to moderate fertility and exceptional drainage. The interplay between these soils and the unique climate facilitates the production of intensely aromatic, ripe, and concentrated wines. Varieties cultivated include Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Lower Wairau Vineyard

  • O' Dwyers Vineyard

    O’Dwyers Farm stands as the original property of the Jones family, nestled in the heart of Rapaura within the Wairau Valley. The soil, rich in fertility and free-draining alluvial silt loam, fosters robust vine and canopy growth. This vigor, coupled with the valley floor's warmth, yields vibrant and fruit-forward Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc wines.

  • Wairau Valley

    In contrast, the Awatere Valley, cooler, drier, and windier than the Wairau Valley, offers a distinct climate. The fruit nurtured at O’Dwyers Farm Vineyard encounters a unique environment compared to the two Awatere Valley locations. These climatic disparities contribute to the distinctiveness of the wines produced at each vineyard. When blended, they offer a diverse array of fruit characteristics across all River Farm wines