Urlar was established in 2004 by Angus and Davina Thomson, in Gladstone in the Wairarapa wine region of New Zealand's North Island. Urlar means “The Earth” in Scottish Gaelic and the couple were passionate about the environment and sustainability. The vineyard received BioGro organic certification in 2010 and biodynamic farming principles were also followed. Urlar built up a strong international reputation for their single vineyard wines. The Thomson's sold Urlar to Nishi Sake Brewing in 2019, a family-run company founded in 1845, whose 8th generation president Yoichiro Nishi has a passion for New Zealand Pinot Noir. Wairarapa is influenced by the Rimutaka mountain range and the climate is similar to the coast of Fukiage-Hama - where Nishi hails from and was another reason to add Urlar to the company's portfolio. Biodynamic farming is continued under the new ownership, following the influences of the sun, moon, planets and stars, and a herd of Highland cattle provides the manure for biodynamic preparations. The 31 hectare single vineyard is under vine with Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir on ancient free-draining soils. The range of handcrafted vegan friendly wines is outstanding: aromatic white wines and vibrant Burgundian reds which beautifully express purity of flavour. These wines reflect The Earth, but they do not cost it!
www.urlar.co.nz