The TE MUNA Vibes
Te Muna means secret or special place in Maori.
Certainly a special place but not really a secret anymore.
The Te Muna valley is located 7km out of Martinborough, it is only a little drive from town. You can also reach Te Muna road by the Rapaki walk which offer spectacular views of Te Muna valley and the Wairarapa valley. The first vineyard was planted in 1989 by Ian Campbell. Pond Paddock vines were planted in 2000.
TE MUNA SOIL
The valley was formed 100 000 to 300 000 years ago when the Huangarua River shifted position and created a very particular soil conducive to growing vines.
The first layer of loam is composed of sand, silt and clay. The clay contains a moderate amount of water and nutrients. The second and very deep layer of alluvial gravel ensures an exceptional drainage.
The perfect balance to nurture and produce premium quality, healthy vines.
MICROCLIMAT
The climate of Te Muna Valley is slightly different from town. The difference in daytime and nightime temperatures is greater than in town. Hot days and cold nights enable the grapes to develop more complex flavours, more tannin ripeness and more structural components.
It never exceeds 30 degrees which allows the grapes to ripen very slowly and to develop pure and powerful fruit characters.
The higher elevation means harvest is often as much as ten days later than the town vineyards.
Te Muna is a special place for us where people meet and share culture and knowledge. We work the land and the vines organically with the help and the support of many passing travellers who became friends and also locals and colleagues who remain available to lend a hand. We always thank by unconditional hospitality.
Te Muna vibes encourage friendship, solidarity and Epicureanism.