Duncan graduated from Lincoln University in New Zealand as the inaugural graduate of the Bachelor of Viticulture and Oneology degree program in 1998. Following his studies he embarked on a global journey to study, taste and learn from the great wine growing regions of the world working harvests in Europe in Burgundy, the Rheingau and the Mosel and throughout the New World regions of California, Australia and New Zealand before eventually setlling in the South Islands Waipara Valley. After 8 years crafting fine Pinot noir and elegant Riesling in Waipara and motivated by the potential to create perhaps New Zealand's greatest union of Grape and Land he has arrived at Man O' War Vineyards with a goal to create iconic New Zealand wines. | | In 1993 the first vines were planted at Man O' War Station, many years later the man whose hands planted those first vines is today still guiding the vineyard towards perfection. Matt was born and raised in Gisborne and following his studies at Tairawhiti Polytechnic embarked on his viticultural career with Montana Wines in 1987. After a time spent travelling and visiting some of the great winegrowing regions of Europe, Matt returned to New Zealand where he was offered the role as Vineyard Manager for Man O' War Vineyards. With unlimited potential and a blank canvas like no other, he has skilfully lead his viticultural team to create some of the most spectacular and challenging vineyards imaginable. His obsession is to produce the finest grapes possible that are a unique reflection of Man O' War. | | For over a hundred years generations of our family have sailed past the Eastern End of Waiheke Island admiring its spectacular beauty and rugged terrain. In 1980 we had the opportunity to purchase the four contiguous farms that now form Man O' War Station.
Originally we just intended to continue to farm the land and protect it for furture generations. But the extraodinary quality of wine produced by our neighbours and friends made us realise that the unique beauty of this land deserved to find its full expression in a bottle of wine. So in the year 1993 we planted the first vines on the boulder laden hills overlooking the Hauraki Gulf with the goal of capturing the special essence of this wonderful place. |