Wine & Food - Wineries & Wine Tastings
Georges Michel established his Marlborough based winery, Domaine Georges Michel Wine Estate, in 1997 to focus on the production of top quality Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. His aim is to continue pursuing the exciting and proven winemaking potential of Marlborough and to endeavour to bring to the market wines of which he is proud to bear his name. Georges is no stranger to the winemaking scene, he is the owner of Chateau de Grandmont in the Burgundy district of France.
Consultant winemaker, Guy Brac de la Perriere, a descendent of one of France's oldest winemaking dynasties, blends years of French winemaking experience with the fresh flavours of Marlborough to produce triumphant wines from New Zealand.
In 2004 Georges' daughter, Swan, joined the winemaking team after qualifying in winemaking and viticulture at Christchurch's Lincoln University. She brings new vision and enthusiasm as well as overseas and local vintage experience.
Georges' wines have been awarded several national and international medals including two Top Gold Medals in the USA and Australia.
In addition to our internationally recognised Sauvignon Blanc, the range includes two Chardonnays: the lightly oaked, fruit driven Golden Mile (named after the renowned stretch of Rapaura Rd where the vineyards are located), and the more complex and sophisticated La Reserve. Two Pinot Noirs are produced: the Golden Mile and the La Reserve Pinot Noirs.
In 2004 the range was extended by the addition of a Rose, namely Summer Folly, made from Pinot Noir, and also a dessert wine, Autumn Folly, made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon in the "vin doux naturel" style echoing the natural sweet wines of France - a unique winemaking style for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
The picturesque winery with its wine, gift and gourmet shop are open to the public. The original restaurant has been rebuilt into "La Veranda", a huge rotund Victorian villa in the style of languid Reunion Island (Georges' birthplace) dwellings. Here is an invitation to relax in the tranquil surroundings of the Richmond Ranges and immerse yourself in the iconic layered blue and grey mountain backdrop.