Meet James and Annie Millton - the godparents of New World biodynamics.
Only two things matter to this dynamic husband-and-wife duo: the quality of their wine, and leaving the land in an improved state for future generations. One of the very first wineries in New Zealand to receive biodynamic certification, they consider these practices to be a simple extension of common sense in farming, and a respect for the harmony of nature. Wild flowers, bees, cows and vines co-exist in perfect harmony at Millton, each providing something for the other.
With a stripped-back approach in the cellar that involves gentle techniques and an avoidance of excessive technology, everything depends on the quality of fruit grown in the vineyards. The Millton team focus less on classical New Zealand grapes varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, specialising instead in Chenin Blanc, Gewurztraminer and Viognier, amongst others. The wines are superb: elegant, balanced, and usually with a wonderful touch of umami that we simply adore.
