French Peak Vineyard, where Scottish owners have followed their dreams and made the impressive move to the New Zealand countryside paradise after 13 years in Singapore.
Welcome to French Peak, a family-owned vineyard nestled in the heart of paradise in New Zealand. Originally from Scotland, Simon and Carolyn Lints found their passion for viticulture and made the bold move to purchase French Peak in June 2021, leaving the concrete jungle of Singapore behind.
Since then, they have immersed themselves in the local community, learned the art of wine-making, and have been on an exciting journey of discovery. The French Peak vineyards are a reflection of their passion for creating premium wines in a stunning setting, and they are grateful for the opportunity to share their love for wine with you.
ABOUT FRENCH PEAK
French Peak Vineyard planted its first vines in 1989, making it the oldest on the Peninsula. It’s nestled in an extinct volcano and is a one-of-a-kind destination for wine enthusiasts. Sitting at an altitude of 80m, the vineyard enjoys cool maritime breezes and a long, sunny growing season, only 700m from the crystalline waters of the sea. With a history dating back centuries, French Peak is where tradition and innovation unite to produce exceptional wines.?
Simon and Carolyn are proud to have run their vineyard using organic and biodynamic principles since 2016, and are currently in the process of obtaining BioGro certification to ensure the organic integrity of their wines. In 2022, they made the switch from spur to cane pruning, resulting in a significant increase in the number of grapes growing on the vines, which currently number around 9,000.
ACCOMMODATION
With stunning views of the surrounding hills, bay and vineyard, French Peak is the ultimate countryside getaway. They have two wonderful experiences to enjoy.
THE WAGON Experience a truly unique and romantic getaway in The Wagon, thoughtfully positioned on the edge of our vineyard with stunning ocean views. This accommodation is perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape, with every comfort and luxury considered.
THE LOFT is a beautiful vineyard accommodation situated within the stunning grounds of the French Peak estate. From the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the vineyard and surrounding countryside. With easy access to the BBQ and pétanque areas, you can make the most of the great outdoors right from the comfort of your back garden. The perfect getaway for couples or small families of up to 4. Visit https://www.frenchpeak.co.nz/accommodation to book.
THE WINES
French peak have a range of wines grown both on their Banks Peninsular vineyard and from the Waipara Valley in North Canterbury. The range of grape varieties includes, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir. Their passion for creating exceptional wines is evident in every bottle of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Rose that we offer.
Due to limited production, each vintage is highly sought after, with the award-winning wines selling out almost every year. Whether you are a connoisseur or simply enjoy a glass of fine wine, French Peak offers a unique and unforgettable tasting experience. Their wines are available for purchase through the online store or by visiting our charming cellar door which is open Wednesday through Sunday, 12pm to 5pm.
JB’s NOTES
Here are JB’s notes on six wines he recently tasted, the latest releases from French Peak Vineyard.
French Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Banks Peninsula North Canterbury NZ
Clear light straw in colour with pale green / gold hues. Fresh aromatic nose with lush tropical, passion-fruit & bright lemon / lime aromas. Crisp juicy palate with a zesty acid backbone, slight mineral texture, nicely weighted, crunchy green apple, lime citrus & ripe tropical fruit flavours end in a long, intense & dry finish. Delish! RRP:$40.00
French Peak Pinot Gris 2023, Banks Peninsula North Canterbury NZ
Mid straw – gold in color, light oily viscosity -Fragrant, floral nose with aromas of honeysuckle baked pears & warming spices. Medium bodied wine, with flavours of red apples, juicy pears, baking spice on the palate – lively, slightly tart acidity & subtle gritty ‘pear skin’ wet-stone textures. Long unctuous but bone dry finish. RRP:$40.00
French Peak Chardonnay 2023, Banks Peninsula, North Canterbury NZ
Shiny medium gold in colour, medium bodied, nice legs / tears too. In the nose, ripe stone-fruit, nectarine, pineapple & a hint of vanilla. A fruit forward palate reflecting the nose with a lovely acid drive, slightly creamy supporting bright stone-fruit, tropical fruit & grapefruit citrus flavours. Nicely textured & balanced, juicy dry finish. Still young – needs time. RRP: $50.00
French Peak Rosé 2023 Banks Peninsula / Waipara North Canterbury NZ
Soft salmon pink in colour, copper hues. Floral noes with immediate notes of strawberries & cream, red berries / red currants and a hint of spice. The palate follows with red berry, cherry, pear & apple flavours. Has a lovely refreshing acidity & fine grippy textures finishing dry. Lightly chill, sip & just enjoy. RRP:$40.00
French Peak Pinot Noir 2023 Banks Peninsula North Canterbury NZ
Quite transparent light cherry-red in colour, lighter bodied. Fragrant aromas of red summer berries, cherry, subtle spice & a slight herb note in the nose. A fresh lively palate, lots of berries & plum fruit, fine acid / tannin / oak influence and a hint of savoury / earth. Light, bright fruit-driven pinot. Long dry finish. RRP:$40.00
French Peak ‘Kumara’s Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2023 Waipara North Canterbury NZ
Semi transparent dark cherry red in colour, medium bodied. Intense black & red berry fruit aromas in the nose, warm baking spice and savoury earth notes. Concentrated mouth-filling palate, dark fruit, damson plum, cherry, spice, lovely velvety tannins & racy acidity all adding texture & character, a little peppery note on the finish. RRP:$45.00
For more information, explore the French Peak website, learn more about their story and discover their range of exquisite wines.