James Millton – Milton Vineyards & Winery
James and Annie Millton established their Millton Vineyards and Winery in 1984. It is a family owned and operated wine estate established situated in the wine appellation of Gisborne on the eastern corner of the North Island of, New Zealand. There are four separate dry farmed vineyards spread over 30 hectares. The use of herbicide, insecticide, systemic fungicide and soluble fertilisers is forbidden, and the ancient principles surrounding Biodynamic activity has been practised since the beginning. This involves strict adherence to the rhythms of nature; the earth, sun and moon and beyond…
It was a real treat for us to have a visit from James in 2012. A real character, the kind that I could talk to for hours. So much knowledge and experience and passion that make his wines so easy to sell.
1. You were the first NZ winery to attain the Bio Gro organic certification. Why organic and biodynamic wine?
In 1984, when we started, it was considered crazy to resort back to the ancient principles of winegrowing. We understood however that in order to grow and produce a wine which truly reflected its origins it was required to have as little as possible reliance on artificial inputs. So organic production presents a very strict discipline and the philosophy of Dr Rudolf Steiner and his indications to biodynamic agriculture made this practice the most ordered and logical method of caring for the land, the space, the people, the plants, and the animals. It is a very exacting business model and a very pleasurable way to make money.
2. Which is your favourite wine that you produce and why?
My favourite wine is Chenin Blanc. I love the way it grows in the vineyard. Its crispness, seductive fruit aromas and warm texture. It can be extremely dry, tender, softly sweet or very noble. It is possibly the best white wine for long term ageing in the world.
3. Why do you think New Zealand wine is so popular all around the world?
Grown in a clean maritime climate on the beautiful islands in the South Pacific the wines present an intriguing fresh flavour profile to the consumer. And our winegrowers are very clever and innovative.
4. Outside of New Zealand where is your favourite wine region?
Outside of Gisborne New Zealand my most favourite wine region is the Loire Valley in France.
5. What does the future hold for Millton Vineyards?
Wisdom, happiness, tender loving kindness, older vines and more complex wines. We just want to get better at what we do.
>> Click here to see Milton’s Crazy By Nature Wines at Locketts
