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Sherwood Estate Winery with vineyard and mountains

Our story

We have been making exceptional wines since 1987

We are a family wine business that has grown from a small husband-and-wife team to one of the largest independent wineries in New Zealand. Our story began in the late 1980s during a challenging time for the industry. Despite the odds, Jill and Dayne Sherwood planted 20 acres of vines in Canterbury in 1987, founding Sherwood Estate Wines. Our "can-do" Kiwi attitude and dedication have shaped us over three decades. We manage every aspect of our business with the personal touch of a family, ensuring the highest standards at every step.

Dayne and Jill Sherwood standing on tanks in winery

Dayne & Jill Sherwood

Jill and Dayne Sherwood have grown Sherwood Estate Wines from a small 20-acre block in North Canterbury to one of New Zealand’s largest family-owned, independent wineries. Together, they manage all aspects of the business, from planting grapes to delivering wine to customers.

Our place

The Waipara Valley's unique micro-climate, created by a wide, gravelly valley floor and limestone-clay hills, shelters it from weather fronts, resulting in long, warm autumns perfect for ripening fruit. Our vineyards, located in the heart of Waipara, embody a vineyard-to-vineyard winemaking philosophy: good wine starts with good grapes.

A birds eye view of church road vineyard

Church Road

Church Road is home to our purpose-built winery, production facilities, warehouse, and administration.

A birds eye view of pilgrim vineyard

Pilgrim

Located on the northeast side of the Waipara Valley the site is on west facing gentle slope.

A bucket of red grapes sitting next to a grapevine

Sustainability

We produce great wine thanks to our exceptional land. As a family company, we prioritise sustainability for future generations. That's why we were among the first in Waipara Valley to have all our vineyards and winery accredited by Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ).

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