Scott Base Vineyard
Owned by the pioneering Marlborough winemaking Allan Scott family, Scott Base Vineyard is situated in one of the most beautiful regions of Aotearoa, overlooking the township of Cromwell and Lake Dunstan, with the majestic Pisa Range acting as a spectacular backdrop to the west and equally spectacular Dunstan Mountains (Northburn) to the east across the lake. A longstanding love of Central Otago and some southern family history lured the Scott family to the region and vineyard, not withstanding an interest to produce Pinot Noir wine with Central Otago distinctive characteristics.
From early ownership the property was nameless, but lovingly referred to by the Scott family as “our base” in Central for the many family tramping and ski holiday adventures. Subsequently the name morphed to “Scott Base” being an obvious perfect fit for the Scott family vineyard in the deep south.
Unsure if it was possible to use the Scott Base name more commonly associated with Antarctica, the Scott family formed a relationship with the Antarctic Heritage Trust which is entrusted to preserve the buildings and heritage status of Antarctica. The family donate a percentage of sales of Scott Base wines to the Trust and provide wines to events and ongoing activities.
Learn more about Allan Scott Family Winemakers here.
Viticulture
Originally established in 1994, the six hectare mostly north facing vineyard has increased in size incrementally as waste corners and terraces were planed to utilise the sloping nature of the vineyard layout. Most of the initial plantings were on their own roots with older Pinot Noir clones now being gradually replanted with resistant rootstock and modern scion clones more suited to the region. The early planting included a small area of Mendoza clone Chardonnay, recently complimented with a planting of grafted Clone 5 to produce a distinctive regional Chardonnay and base wine for our regional Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wine “Emperor”.
Already being an accredited Sustainable Vineyard for many years we are now moving to total organic management which should see full organic status in two years. The vineyard is a highly visible site viewed by passers by on state highways 6 and 8, therefore care is required for the site to be not only meticulously managed with best practice, but be visually pleasing as well.
Scott Base Cellar Door
The tasting room and venue is operated by local Cromwell couple Brigitte and Paul Tait. With an enthusiasm for wine, beer and delicious seasonal food the opportunity to run Scott Base Cellar Door was one not to be missed. Brigitte and Paul love welcoming guests from all over the world and sharing their slice of Central Otago to anyone who will listen. As well as hosting visitors throughout the day they love to collaborate with local businesses in creating some epic events at their special wee spot up on the hill!
Scott Base Cellar Door offers something for every taste, showcasing the range of Scott Base wines, the Scott family’s Marlborough wines, locally brewed beer, as well as a selection of Moa craft beer. Moa has a special connection to the Scott family as Josh Scott founded the brewery in 2003. You can also discover Josh’s exciting range of “craft wines” at the tasting room, along with other local products and delicacies, and a menu of light bites and platters.
