Situated just 5 kilometres east of Martinborough village, Escarpment's 24 hectares of distinctive alluvial gravel, terraced land stretch out along the banks of the Huangarua River. Overlooking the vineyard are the Aorangi Ranges, the very hills made famous by Kupe the great Polynesian voyager who discovered New Zealand, according to Maori legend. The legend says that Kupe left his three canoes on top of the range, giving rise to the now familiar landmark of the district: three flat-topped hills which resemble unturned canoes. This warrior and his story provide the inspiration for the vineyard's distinctive brand and logo. Escarpment's aim is simple: to continually produce the very best of tomorrow's definitive New World wines. "Complexity" "texture" and "structure" are key words (and motivators). Under Larry's leadership the team aims to reward wine lovers with progressive and suggestive wines that encourage them to venture to the edge of wine loving and appreciation. Escarpment Vineyard was established in 1999 as a joint business venture between Robert & Mem Kirby (of Australia's Village Roadshow) and Larry & Sue McKenna. Collectively, these four directors bring to Escarpment a world of experience, skill and understanding to the nurturing and making of fine, deliciously sublime wine. It goes without saying the impetus behind establishing this vineyard came from the four's deep love for Pinot Noir. Meeting by chance in 1999 through Dr Richard Smith, Larry and Robert quickly hit it off and realised they had more than a love for the grape in common. Serious talk about establishing a definitive New World vineyard began in earnest even then and the 'idea whose time has come' has resulted in one of the most significant vineyard developments in the New Zealand district of Martinborough. Escarpment's varietal selection consists of 70% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Gris, 5% Riesling and 5% Pinot Blanc. While the majority of these grapes are grown on-site, Escarpment also sources grapes from two other local vineyards growers who grow and supply grapes to Escarpment: Station Bush for additional Pinot Gris and Cleland Vineyard for additional Pinot Noir. Escarpment's deep commitment to Pinot Noir is supported by significant plantings of the latest clonal material available on modern rootstocks. Two plant spacings have been utilised to exploit optimal value from the precious soils, while providing significant quality benefits. While these spacings are considered closely planted by New Zealand standards, it is believed greater complexity will be achieved as a result. Escarpment is accredited with Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand®, an industry initiative directed through New Zealand Winegrowers. With a growing trade and consumer demand for environmentally friendly products, it provides an important platform to promote the New Zealand wine industry as a world leader in clean, green wine production. Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand® provides a frame-work to improve all aspects of performance – environmental, social and economic sustainability. In the vineyard, it addresses the use of agrichemicals, soil health, water availability and quality, and biodiversity. In the winery, it addresses resource management, waste management and process management issues. The programme also promotes the well-being of staff, neighbours and the community. The Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand® logo endorses wines produced from 100% accredited vineyard grapes, verifying their commitment to environmentally responsible production.
