Our winemaking

Precision Winemaking, from Vineyard to Glass

Our winemaking journey at Prophet’s Rock is guided by a singular vision: to craft wines that embody the essence of our unique terroir in Central Otago. We do not seek to emulate the wines of other regions but to create something that is inherently our own. Each bottle we produce tells the story of our vineyards, the climate, and the meticulous care that goes into every step of the winemaking process. Through our philosophy of minimal intervention and site-specific expression, we aim to bring you wines that are both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly innovative.

Respecting the Vineyard

Our approach to viticulture is focused on sustainable practices and minimal intervention. We believe that great wine starts in the vineyard, and our goal is to nurture the natural attributes of our land to produce grapes of exceptional quality. This involves careful site selection, meticulous vineyard management, and a deep understanding of the climatic and geological factors that influence grape development.

Unique Terroir

Each of our vineyards boasts a unique terroir that contributes to the complexity and character of our wines. The Home Vineyard’s mix of schist, quartz, and clay soils, the steep and stony slopes of Rocky Point, and the fertile, low-vigor soils of Kopuwai Delta all play a crucial role in shaping the flavor profiles of our Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and other varietals.

Minimal Intervention in the Winery

Our winemaking philosophy is built on the principle of minimal intervention, allowing the true character of the grapes and the vineyard to shine through. All grapes are hand-harvested to ensure the utmost care and quality. We employ traditional techniques such as whole-bunch pressing for our aromatic whites and wild yeast fermentation to enhance the natural flavors and aromas of the fruit. By avoiding excessive manipulation and intervention, we strive to create wines that are a pure expression of their origin.

Balanced Use of Oak

In our pursuit of balance and subtlety, we use oak judiciously to complement rather than dominate the wine. We carefully select fine-grained barrels with medium toast levels to add structure and complexity without overshadowing the delicate nuances of the fruit. This approach helps us achieve wines that are refined and elegant, with a clear sense of place.

Pursuit of Elegance

Our wines are crafted to showcase the elegance and complexity of Central Otago’s cool climate. From the vibrant acidity and mineral notes of our Riesling to the refined tannins and expressive fruit of our Pinot Noir, each wine reflects our commitment to quality and attention to detail.

Balance and Harmony in Every Bottle

Creating wines that are balanced and harmonious is central to our winemaking philosophy. We believe that the best wines are those that offer a seamless integration of flavors, textures, and aromas, providing a sensory experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.

Reflecting Vintage and Site

We take pride in producing wines that reflect the vintage and the unique characteristics of each vineyard site. By allowing the natural variations in climate and soil to influence the wine, we create a product that is not only distinctive but also a true representation of its environment.