2026 Marks our 25th Vintage
A milestone that reflects not only longevity but consistency. Today, Motueka Wine Growers carry the distinctive character of Nelson terroir to 11 countries—recognized through a growing collection of gold medals and 90+ point reviews. Motueka Wine Growers embrace sustainable practices that honor the land, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the fruits of their labor. By blending traditional techniques with modern innovations, they create wines that are not only delightful to the palate but also respectful of the environment. At the core of every vintage lies a profound connection to this region and the individuals who bring its wines to fruition.
Meet The Team
-
Wine Maker/Sebastien Bouchut
Sebastian (Seb) Bouchut serves as the skilled Winemaker at Motueka Wine Growers. Seb began his winemaking career in 2010, earning a Diploma in Viticulture and Winemaking from NMIT. He then pursued further education and obtained a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology from Lincoln University. His aim is to craft exceptional, concentrated wines that everyone can appreciate. At Motueka Wine Growers, Seb manages the entire winemaking process, from harvest to bottle, guaranteeing that each wine embodies the estate's distinctive terroir. He is dedicated to producing wines that “capture the vintage” while upholding the estate’s commitment to sustainability and excellence.
-
General Manager/Chris Drummond
Chris is the driving force behind his family's winemaking business. Chris, born, bred and educated in New Zealand's Motueka horticultural region, earned a Diploma in Business at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology then qualified as an Associate Chartered Accountant. By that time wine - a "hobby" since his late teens - had become a passion. In 2002 the Drummond family planted a few hectares of grapes and Chris set up Anchorage Wines, producing the first small vintage of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in 2003.
In December 2005 Chris moved to concentrate on Motueka Wine Growers full-time and now runs the financial side of the business as well as undertaking its sales and marketing. From 400 cases in the first year, production has increased to 25,000 and is still growing. Most of the growth comes from export orders, although Motueka Wine Growers is just as keen to maintain its focus on New Zealand markets too.
-
Viticulturist/Gavin Drummond
Gavin opted to join the tobacco growing industry when he left school and then moved to processing the product for Rothmans in Motueka. When the family bought an apple orchard, he joined his father Ray in forming Riwaka Fruit and Vegetables, working mainly in pip fruit orcharding until 2000 when they decided to grow grapes. Gavin and Ray considered grapes in 1992 but decided not to proceed then after a Ministry of Agriculture report deemed grapes "too risky." The family company became Motueka Winemakers & Growers, and vineyards of chardonnay, sauvignon, pinot gris, and pinot noir were planted. Work aside, Gavin enjoys boating, fishing, and spending time with his daughters Gabrielle and Paige.
Five generations on the same Riwaka soils since 1855
2026 Marks Our 25th Vintage
In 1855, young Alexander Drummond and his wife Ann left the rugged landscapes of Scotland in search of new opportunities. The promise of fertile lands and a fresh start led them across the world to the shores of New Zealand. After a decade of hard work and perseverance, they settled in Riwaka in 1866, a place where the soil was rich, the air crisp, and the future full of potential.
With hands weathered by years of farming, the Drummonds built a legacy from the ground up. They cultivated hops, tended to rows of tobacco, and later embraced the changing tides of agriculture by growing kiwifruit, apples, and pears. Their farm became a cornerstone of the Motueka region, a testament to resilience and an unwavering connection to the land.
But it was their passion for viticulture that would define their future. As generations passed, the family turned their attention to winemaking, believing that the same soil that had nurtured fruit for over a century could produce something extraordinary. In the heart of their vineyards in Riwaka and Motueka, they carefully planted vines, blending tradition with innovation.
Today, Motueka Wine Growers is known for its award-winning wines—each bottle telling the story of six generations of dedication, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the land. From crisp Sauvignon Blancs that capture the essence of the Tasman breeze to rich Pinot Noirs that echo the depth of their heritage, every sip reflects a history of hard work and passion.
The Drummonds’ journey from Scotland to New Zealand is more than a story of migration; it is a legacy of perseverance, adaptation, and a deep-rooted love for the land. At Motukea Wine Growers Estate, their past is woven into every vineyard row, and their future is poured into every glass.
Motueka Wine Growers – Crafted by Generations, Inspired by Nature.
Award Winning Sustainable Farming
Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand™ is widely recognised as the world-leading sustainability programme and was one of the first to be established in the international wine industry in 1995.
Nestled in the Motueka region, the Drummond family has been farming the land since 1866. As we embark on our 25th year of vintage, we focus on high-quality winemaking practices while honoring our estate's commitment to sustainability.