Pyramid Valley – North Canterbury, New Zealand
Pyramid Valley are in our opinion New Zealand’s most exciting “newcomers” of the past few years, making some of the most impressive Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays outside Burgundy. Situated about 50kms north of Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island, their cool climate, high altitude vineyards are based on a mix of clay and limestone soils. The winery was originally founded and vineyards planted by wine-loving husband and wife Mike and Claudia Elze Weesring in 2000, and have been cultivated biodynamically ever since.
German-born and America-raised Claudia was a committed biodynamicist and the guiding spirit on the land in the early years of Pyramid Valley. Mike studied oenology and viticulture in Burgundy and worked in vineyards and cellars across Europe, honing his precise vision and practice for spectacular winemaking. Together, Mike and Claudia created remarkable wines for close to 20 years that have been recognised the world over.
In 2017 the winery was sold to good friends Brian Sheth and Steve Smith MW, who have rapidly taken the wines to the next quality level. Steve is one of New Zealand’s most accomplished winemakers and formerly the head winemaker at Craggy Range. At 20+ years of age, the vines are now beginning to show their true potential. These are fantastic, single site, terroir-expressive wines and great value alternatives to Burgundy!
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