A Vineyard with a View—and a History
Planted on family-owned land overlooking the Waiuku River, Hopping Estate Wines began its journey in 2019 with a vision to create boutique, small-batch wines rooted in local heritage. Today, our Syrah, Pinot Gris, and Cabernet Sauvignon vines thrive in this peaceful corner of Franklin, Auckland—nurtured by nature, and harvested by hand.
Waipipi Terroir: The Land Behind the Label
Located just minutes from Waiuku and a stone’s throw from the rugged beauty of Karioitahi Beach, the vineyard enjoys the best of Franklin’s maritime climate. The gentle elevation, coastal breezes, and silty loam soil create an ideal microclimate for growing expressive, cool-climate varieties. On blustery days, you can hear the roaring waves of Karioitahi – an ever-present reminder of this region’s natural rhythm.
Hand-Tended from
Vine to Barrel
At Hopping Estate Wines, quality starts in the field. We favour manual techniques to ensure precision and protect vine health, allowing each plant to reach its full potential. Harvesting is also done by hand, ensuring only the best fruit makes it into our wines. This attention to detail defines our approach and results in wines that are balanced, refined, and true to the fruit.
Guided by the Land, Grounded in Respect
While not certified organic, our vineyard practices are shaped by a commitment to sustainability. We minimise inputs, and prioritise soil health and biodiversity. We believe in farming in a way that gives back to the land, ensuring it continues to support future generations—just as it has supported ours.
Small-Batch Wines with a Sense of Place
Every bottle of our wine tells a local story. Our winemaking philosophy is simple: work with the land, not against it. We produce single-vineyard wines in small batches, allowing the unique character of each vintage to shine through. Grown, picked, and bottled in Auckland our wines are crafted with patience, precision, and pride—from the first shoot to the final sip.