Nearly a century later in the early 1980's Peter Vavasour took a keen interest in the viticultural developments of the Wairau Valley in Marlborough. After some research it was found that the climate and soils of the Awatere region were quite similar to those of the Wairau. In fact, the soil in the Awatere Valley is less fertile (this is a good thing) than the Wairau. Low fertility naturally restricts vigour in the vine. The Awatere Valley is also drier, and with no underground water the vines are bound to struggle. At Vavasour we can control the growth of the vine with the irrigation water.

Although the conditions in the Wairau are similar, there are enough differences between the two valleys for us to make unique and individual wines. In 1985, after the site was carefully assessed, the Vavasour family and friends decided to make a serious investment in viticulture - Vavasour Wines was established. The first vineyards (30 acres) planted in the region were on the Vavasour 'home' block. This vineyard was made up of two terraces. The top terrace was planted in Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, while the lower terrace was planted in red varietals - Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Cabernet. Our first vintage was 1989. Within three years we had won numerous gold medals in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Glenn Thomas, winemaker, won 'winemaker of the year' in 1992. This was a very good start. Those first years officially put the Awatere Valley on the map of great wine making regions.

Vavasour have gradually increased production since the early days. We have planted a further 45 acres( a total of 75 acres) and we have contract growers in both the Awatere and Wairau valleys.

We are dedicated to the Awatere region and our philosophy is to concentrate on fruit grown in the area. Selected grapes are handpicked; this ensures that only the best fruit makes it into the bottle. Our vineyards are trained on the 'vertical shoot positioning' trellis. This form of trellising suits our growing conditions: it also makes it easier if we have to manipulate the canopy due to seasonal growing conditions. Between Glenn (winemaker) and Allan (viticulturist) every effort has been made to ensure that the vineyard and viticultural techniques are adapted to suit the conditions of the Awatere region. After all great wine is made in the vineyard. In all its viticultural techniques Vavasour have focussed on quality over quantity.

The intrinsic value characters of the Awatere valley are perfect for the production of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. The emphasis remains on Sauvignon Blanc, however other varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Riesling will receive the golden 'Vavasour' touch..