Celebrating 30 Years of Herzog Winery in Marlborough, 50 Years of Marlborough Wine Region 

As we usher in the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing power, strength, and good fortune, we reflect on the spirit that ignited our journey from our Swiss wine estate to establish Hans Herzog Estate in Marlborough three decades ago. 

In 1994, fuelled by a pioneering vision and a thirst for adventure, my husband Hans and I embarked on a daring expedition across oceans and continents. With the dream of crafting the finest wines in a land renowned for its beauty but relatively uncharted in the world of winemaking – Marlborough – we took the leap of faith that would forever change our lives. 

With determination as our compass, we planted roots along the banks of the Wairau River, embracing the challenge of nurturing a diverse array of grape varieties. In a region known for its Sauvignon Blanc, we dared to defy convention, introducing an unprecedented variety of grapes to Marlborough’s soil, each one a testament to our unwavering belief in the power of quality, skills, and innovation. 

As we commemorate 30 years of Hans Herzog Estate, Hans and I reflect on the defining moments of our journey. It is a narrative marked by risk-taking, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence – qualities that have propelled us forward in the face of uncertainty and adversity. 

But our story is not ours alone. It is intertwined with the rich tapestry of Marlborough’s winemaking history, a tale of pioneers who dared to dream, to explore, and to push the boundaries of possibility. As Marlborough marks 50 years as a wine region, we pay homage to those who came before us, paving the way for future generations to thrive in this dynamic and vibrant community. 

As we raise our glasses to toast these dual milestones, let us celebrate the courage to embrace the unknown, to chart new territories, and to defy the odds. Here is to 30 years of Hans Herzog Estate, 50 years of Marlborough’s wine region, and the countless adventures that lie ahead. May the Year of the Dragon bring us all strength, prosperity, and the courage to continue writing our story, one sip at a time. 

Few would have predicted Marlborough’s rapid ascent to become one of New Zealand’s preeminent – and internationally renowned – wine-growing regions. From August 2023 the region’s winemakers and growers are celebrating 50 years of Marlborough’s official beginning as a wine region, and inviting the country to re-discover the depth of Marlborough wine.

Discover the history of our region’s wine brands and explore stories about our people and place that make it special here.

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