Our story
"Take time, make time, while time lasts."
Wines that tell stories, together.
Finding the natural rhythm – working with the seasons, the vines, the people. Finding what works for this land, now and into the future. And producing the best possible wines. This the ethos of Ariosa wines.
The subtle notes of each vintage wine tell the story of our vineyard year: we work the land and vines ourselves, by hand, and slowly, using the changing rhythm of the seasons to do the best for our vines.
Ariosa \ “in the manner of an air or melody”
The name Ariosa is derived from the musical term, Arioso. It is a type of singing that takes the timing and natural flow of speaking, to demonstrate what characters felt about their situations. It connects the moments in the music that really matter.
For our wines, it is the same. We craft wines that reflect the story of our vintage, yet also seamlessly connect with your story, finding your special moment. Each bottle, each glass contains a little bit of history past, and a little bit of history yet to be made – by you.
"How you spend time is what really matters"
Our labour of love
After spending several decades working overseas and raising two wonderful kids, we decided it was high time to return to the land of our childhood dreams and live our next passion: growing wine.
Without any prior experience but with a curious and enquiring mindset we set about searching for the perfect vineyard site. This was found in Bendigo, Central Otago, on an old glacial terrace high above the Clutha river valley.
Once the Bendigo station land was bought in 2013 over a cup of tea and a firm South Island handshake agreement, we set out to plant the vineyard in 2014 and work the vines. Growing premium quality grapes and wine has become a huge passion and pride. Great support from local winegrowers and winemakers has grown into wonderful friendships and a strong sense of community belonging. Our scientific and practical hands-on backgrounds have helped enormously in learning our new craft.
Past passions still remain, although the windsurfing here is in more gusty and colder conditions, the cycling is on busier roads, and the fresh food produce available is more limited. However, taking time for cooking, listening to music and sharing a glass of wine with friends and family in this stunning and precious part of the world remains a huge joy after a hard day in the vineyard.
