Marlborough, New Zealand
Their Story
Fiona Turner, owner and winemaker of Tinpot Hut, embarked on the development of her Blind River "Home Block" vineyard in Marlborough's Awatere Valley alongside her husband Hamish back in 2005. Today, this vineyard stands as a testament to their dedication, boasting fully mature vines that yield exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir grapes, which form the cornerstone of Tinpot Hut's renowned wines.
Originally part of a sprawling sheep farming station, Fiona pays homage to the roots of her vineyard by christening her wine collection after the iconic 'Tinpot Hut' – a cherished landmark in Marlborough frequented by local high country musterers. Situated amidst the Awatere and Wairau Valleys, the Tinpot Hut stands as a poignant symbol of the region's agricultural heritage, mirroring its transition from a sheep farming stronghold to a globally acclaimed wine-producing hub.
Fiona, drawing from her academic background with a Master of Science (Hons), has dedicated over 24 years to mastering the craft of winemaking, with stints in Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, Central Otago, and even California. Her approach revolves around achieving balance – what the French term 'terroir,' she prefers to call 'balance' – where the synergy between vine, soil, climate, and meticulously timed harvests yields wines of exquisite elegance.
While Fiona spearheads the winemaking process, her husband Hamish oversees the vineyard operations. Together, they embrace organic and regenerative farming practices, ensuring that each bottle of Tinpot Hut wine is not just a testament to their passion but also to their commitment to sustainability.
The Wines
Pinot Gris
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Noir