Catalina Sounds Pinot Gris 2014 (6 x 750mL), Marlborough, NZ.

Our journey started in 2005 with a singular vision to produce the best wines in Marlborough. Named after the majestic Catalina flying boats that once flew across the vast Marlborough Sounds, Catalina Sounds produces wines that are unique with minimum intervention and are true to their vineyard sites while capturing the best of the region.

We have evolved from our humble origins, building a reputation for producing premium Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc throughout the world. Now we are pushing into new varieties such as Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. We have also created a single vineyard range from our home vineyard Sound of White, as well as a sister brand Crowded House.

PETER JACKSON WINEMAKER

Peter’s life changed when he was exposed to French at High School – the start of a journey that led to him majoring in French at University and a year’s hiatus to ride a pushbike through France in 1997. As he rode through some of the great wine regions of the world, not only was the liquid itself a revelation, but the history and culture surrounding wine captured Peter’s interest such that upon his return, he moved to Adelaide, Australia to study Oenology.

Peter now follows a very simple philosophy – source fruit from the best possible vineyard sites and get your harvest decision right. His aspirations continue to be the same as when he inherited the role of Catalina Sounds winemaker in September 2011 – to create wines that speak honestly and with integrity. He strives to make beautifully balanced wines that capture the site and express the region, while working to build additional interest and texture into the background.

FRASER BROWN - VINEYARD MANAGER

Growing up on a farm, Fraser spent much of his youth outdoors. Upon leaving school, he worked in the adventure tourism industry before persuasion from his family resulted in him working alongside his father in vineyard management and contracting. His father instilled in him that hard work and staying one step ahead of the vines will be rewarded with the perfect grape come harvest time.

After many years of experience, the opportunity to work with Catalina Sounds arose in 2011 and it was an easy decision to make. Upon first arriving at Sound of White, childhood memories of growing up in the country came flooding back. With sheep grazing the paddocks around the vineyard, ducks on the pond and views to the mountains and sea, he knew he’d found his calling.