Planted in 2011, this intimate one‑hectare pocket of Grüner Veltliner is nestled in the cradle of the Omaka Valley in the Southern Valleys subregion. It sits on a complex soil profile of free‑draining alluvial gravels and silty loams, within the warm microclimate of the Omaka encouraging ripe yet lifted aromatics, concentration and fruit purity.
Only 42 hectares of Grüner exist across the whole of New Zealand, making this singular hectare extraordinarily rare. Its significance is amplified by the fact these are among the oldest Grüner plantings in the country, and by the Falloons’ daily, hands‑on stewardship. Every vine is trained, pruned, and harvested by hand, a labour of attention that translates into intense varietal purity and textural finesse in the bottle.
Key Facts
Subregion: Omaka Valley
Valley: Southern Valleys, Wairau Valley
Region: Marlborough
Grows: Grüner Veltliner
Planted: 2011
Rainfall: 650-800mm / annum
Mean Annual GDD: 1200-1300
Soils: Alluvial silts and clay loams
Elevation (m): 50 m
Hectares: 1 ha
Growers: Jonathan & Robyn Falloon
Soil & Climate
Axehouse Vineyard is located on the valley floor of the Omaka Valley, a subregion known for its warm, dry summers and cool nights. The north–south orientation of the surrounding foothills shelters the Omaka, meaning ‘place of the stream’ in te reo Maori, from the cooling easterly sea breeze.
This makes it one of the warmer pockets within the Southern Valleys. This warmth promotes full phenolic ripeness and concentration in the fruit, while the light clay loam soils over silt and alluvial gravels provide excellent water retention and structure.
Grower Philosophy
Jonathan and Robyn Falloon left behind careers in corporate finance and investment to pursue a life more connected to nature. Their vineyard is named after their architecturally designed home, which sits on the property and, when viewed from above, resembles the shape of an axe, hence the name Axehouse.
The home has won multiple architectural awards and symbolizes their bold, creative approach to both life and viticulture. Their philosophy is rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and a deep respect for the land they now call home.
