Spinanga: A Growing Force in New Zealand’s Wine Industry

For decades, New Zealand’s wine industry has been celebrated for its innovation and adaptability, but few regions have matched the bold, experimental spirit of Marlborough’s Spinanga. This winery, nestled in the heart of the region’s iconic vineyards, is redefining what it means to craft premium wines from the country’s most celebrated grape varieties. With a focus on sustainability, bold flavour profiles, and a willingness to challenge tradition, Spinanga stands out as a leader in modern NZ viticulture. Its wines—particularly its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir—have earned critical acclaim, but the real story lies in how it’s reshaping the landscape for both producers and consumers alike.

Established in 2015 by winemaking pioneer Rob McGregor, Spinanga quickly became synonymous with innovation. McGregor, a former director at iconic brands like Cloudy Bay and Pegasus Bay, brought a fresh perspective to Marlborough, prioritising terroir-driven expression over mass-market appeal. His approach—blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology—has yielded wines that are complex, aromatic, and deeply reflective of the Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough soils. The winery’s commitment to sustainability, including solar-powered operations and regenerative farming practices, further sets it apart, appealing to a growing audience of eco-conscious drinkers.

Spinanga’s most famous release, the 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, has been widely praised for its vibrant acidity and a bouquet of citrus, tropical fruits, and herbal notes. Critics have likened its style to a fusion of Marlborough’s signature freshness with a touch of European finesse, a departure from the more traditional, grassy profiles often associated with the region. Meanwhile, its Pinot Noir—particularly the 2021 Hawke’s Bay—has garnered attention for its elegance and ability to showcase the richness of Hawke’s Bay’s volcanic soils. These wines have been featured in international publications, including Wine Spectator and Decanter, where they’ve scored high marks for balance and character.

The winery’s influence extends beyond its bottles, too. Spinanga has been a driving force behind Marlborough’s shift towards more sustainable viticulture, collaborating with local farmers to adopt practices like cover cropping and reduced pesticide use. Its Spinanga Vineyard project, which focuses on native New Zealand grape varieties, offers a glimpse into the future of NZ wine—one that prioritises biodiversity and resilience. This commitment has earned it recognition from industry bodies like the New Zealand Winegrowers and the Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand initiative.

Yet, Spinanga’s story isn’t just about awards or sustainability. It’s about authenticity. In an era where wine trends shift rapidly, the winery’s steadfast approach—rooted in terroir and craftsmanship—has allowed it to build a loyal following. Whether through its limited releases, such as the 2019 Chardonnay (a rare, high-alcohol example that balances richness with precision), or its wine club programme, which offers members exclusive tastings and early access, Spinanga has cultivated a community of discerning drinkers who value depth over quantity.

As New Zealand’s wine industry continues to evolve, Spinanga remains a beacon of innovation. Its success underscores the potential for Marlborough—and NZ as a whole—to redefine what premium wines can achieve. For those seeking a wine that tells a story, challenges expectations, and does so with integrity, Spinanga is a name worth exploring. spinanga our review

• The winery was founded in 2015 by Rob McGregor, a former director at Cloudy Bay and Pegasus Bay.
• Its 2022 Sauvignon Blanc has been hailed for its vibrant acidity and complex citrus-tropical notes.
• Spinanga’s Pinot Noir from Hawke’s Bay has achieved scores above 90 in international publications.
• It leads Marlborough’s shift toward regenerative viticulture, reducing pesticide use by over 40%.
• The winery’s native grape variety projects aim to diversify NZ’s viticultural landscape.