OUR PHILOSOPHY

What we believe

Quality is our obsession, our hallmark, and our promise. We know making exceptional wines takes acute attention to detail in all aspects of wine production.

In the vineyards, our yields are around 30% lower than the regional average. In the winery, we use technology, taste and experience to select only the best grapes for each wine. It might mean fewer bottles, but it always means better wine.

Beyond the quality of our wines, we care most about protecting this place we call home. Cloudy Bay is a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. In Central Otago, our vineyards are farmed organically. Selected Estate blocks in Marlborough are trialing organic practices to roll out across the remaining vineyards.

Two hands holding grape vine leavesa

OUR STORY

The yarn

In 1983 David Hohnen tasted his first Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Captivated by its intensity, he began a journey to bottle the essence of Marlborough and share it with the world.

He and winemaker Kevin Judd launched Cloudy Bay in 1985 to international acclaim, with a Sauvignon Blanc that put New Zealand wine on the map.

Cloudy Bay’s legacy began in Marlborough with Sauvignon Blanc and now includes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pelorus méthode traditionnelle. The spirit of adventure continues with Te Koko, a barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc, and Te Wāhi, a sophisticated Central Otago Pinot Noir from our two special southern vineyards.
Aerial photograph of Cloudy Bay vineyards in Marlborough
"To make landmark wines you have to walk the vineyard and be a good observer."
David Hohnen

OUR PLACE

Cloudy Bay vineyards

Our people

Meet the Cloudy Bay team

Without our winemaking crew, all we’d have is grapes. Meet the people behind the wines.

ABOUT US

Sustainability

We believe New Zealand is the world’s most inspiring work of nature. It’s where we grow some of the world’s most inspiring wines too, so protecting it is the natural thing to do. After all, what’s good for the world is good for the wine.

We’re evolving our craft to make world-class wine as sustainably as possible, and taking steps to look after our local communities and seasonal workers. In doing this, we ensure that the wine and community we enjoy today is enjoyed by the next generation too.

Explore our wines