Merekara Wines
Marlborough
Facts.
First Vintage: 2019
Scale: 0.7Ha , 1-5T per year
Range: Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir
Did you know… You can arrange a vineyard visit and tasting in the vines by appointment only.
Fun fact… Jaco and his wife Sandra got married in the cellars of Champagne Pol Roger, 33 Meters under the Avenue de Champagne.
About
Jaco and Sandra, both with a high-level hospitality background as sommeliers, share a profound love for wine that has now grown into something tangible.
“The dream was to make wine from the moment we met.”
With extensive wine studies and experiences at renowned vineyards in Bordeaux, France, and Stellenbosch, South Africa, Jaco has honed his expertise. Their dream of winemaking became a reality when they discovered the beauty of the Awatere Valley in New Zealand's Marlborough region. In 2014, they embarked on their New Zealand journey, taking their initial steps together in the almighty Brêloft vineyard. The allure of the Awatere Valley, the warm Marlborough sun, and the welcoming community captivated them.
In 2019, their dream blossomed as they harvested their first Pinot Noir grapes. They expanded their repertoire with Sauvignon Blanc in 2020 and Chenin Blanc in 2021. Embracing a boutique approach, they produce only a few barrels per variety, prioritizing quality above all else. Meticulous care in the vineyard, hand-picked grapes, and minimal intervention in the winery shape their winemaking philosophy. They strive to showcase the unique character of each vintage, allowing nature to play its part. Their wines challenge the notion of "classic Marlborough," embracing a distinct expression.
Merekara, Māori for ‘Miracle’, is named as such after their own miracle in the form of their daughter Grace, and also as they really feel they are ‘living the dream’. The logo, designed by Sandra, portrays a cluster of grapes, with the Koru symbolizing the stem and the clouds of Aotearoa representing the berries.
As a small wine business, they embrace the challenges. Amidst a sea of exceptional New Zealand wines, they stand out through their passion for meticulous care and slow winemaking. They remain dedicated to their craft, creating honest and authentic wines meant to be enjoyed with friends and whanau.
Wine matching:
Sauvignon Blanc 2022: Enjoy the creamy mouthfeel and ripe flavors that beautifully complement spicy Asian dishes like Thai curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, or Indian cuisine.
Chenin Blanc 2022: Pair this wine with pork dishes featuring fruit-based sauces, such as pork chops with apple sauce. The wine's fruit-forward character enhances the flavors of the dish.
Pinot Noir 2021: Indulge in slowly cooked beef cheek with root vegetables and a rich gravy alongside this expressive Pinot Noir.
Auslese 2022: This wine is perfect for after dinner or before dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a cheese platter or desserts featuring hints of orange, chocolate, and plums.
