The vineyard, originally planted in 1986, became the foundation for Redgwell’s pursuit of biodynamic farming, focusing on sustainability on a human scale. The 2.2-hectare property is situated within the Martinborough Terrace Appellation, an area known for its distinct geological features. The land, formed 20,000 years ago at the confluence of the Huangarua and Ruamahanga rivers, is rich in weathered riverborne sandstone and windblown dust. Beneath the surface, gravels from the Tararua Range are combined with clay seams, ferrous oxides, and limestone from the eastern coast, contributing to the vineyard's unique terroir.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, the vineyard followed organic farming practices, with some herbicides used before its acquisition by Redgwell in 2006. Upon taking ownership, he swiftly transitioned the vineyard back to organic methods and introduced biodynamic practices to improve the soil's biological health and optimize the site's potential.

The winery, established a few years after the vineyard, marked another milestone in Redgwell’s vision. He transitioned to 100% native yeast fermentation and eliminated all adjustments except for minimal sulphite additions. In 2012, Cambridge Road released its first “zero-add” wine, a vin gris made from Pinot Noir. This was followed by a Pet-Nat in 2013, and in subsequent years, the vineyard expanded its offerings to include raw red and amber wines, which continue to reflect the commitment to minimal intervention.

The wines produced at Cambridge Road are the result of a philosophy that values authenticity and purity. With nearly no use of sulphites or additives, the wines are a true reflection of the fruit, fermented naturally and bottled without alteration. This minimal-intervention approach is rooted in Redgwell’s belief that organic farming is essential for producing healthy, high-quality wines. By fermenting with a diverse population of natural microflora, including lactobacillus, the wines retain beneficial elements that are often filtered out in conventional winemaking. The use of skin and seed coat extraction in many white varieties also enhances the tannic structure and antioxidant properties of the wines.

Cambridge Road Vineyard’s commitment to biodynamic principles, organic farming, and minimal intervention winemaking has resulted in wines that authentically express the land's potential. These wines are crafted with respect for nature, aiming to deliver a unique and honest experience for wine lovers.

For more information, visit Cambridge Road Vineyard or contact lance@cambridgeroad.co.nz.