Situated deep in the Waipara Valley, The Bone Line is protected from the cool easterly winds yet it is exposed to the warm northwest winds. Due to its positioning in the Teviotdale Hills and nearby Southern Alps, the winery receives very little rainfall, abundant sunshine and warm summers, perfect for phenolic ripeness, complexity and a variety of styles.
Named in reference to the nearby K-T boundary line, which provides evidence of the global catastrophe of an asteroid’s impact on earth and the extinction of the dinosaurs, The Bone Line draws a meaningful connection with the land on which its fruit is grown. Each wine’s label features fossils that were discovered in the Waipara River dating all the way back 65 million years. Established in 2013, The Bone Line is relatively new to the North Canterbury wine scene although it has a rich history. Originally targeting Australian and International markets, the winery has since become a New Zealand favourite and must-stop on the North Canterbury wine trail.
The team’s wine making approach involves bringing forth the best from the fruit in any given season with minimal intervention and maximum care. Fruit is handpicked and treated individually in the winery, which enables each parcel to reach its potential and allows for multiple blending options. With the unusual range of varieties this site can successfully ripen, the team runs tank and barrel fermentations alongside small lots of hand plunged Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot & Syrah. Some wines reach full expression within Vegan certification guidelines, this depends on every wine and vintage.
The team loves growing grapes, making wine, and as hosting visitors. Alongside its beautiful wine, The Bone Line has recently opened a walkway through the vineyard. The expansive property provides ample space for sipping and contemplation and there’s currently talk about adding food to their repertoire. We’ve heard whispers about a partnership with The Pierogi Joint. Wine and pierogies would make an unbelievable combination, if you ask us.
Q&A with Jack Hill from The Bone Line
Why North Canterbury? I was born in Waipara on the vineyard and grew up witnessing my parents hard work while putting us through school. So I want to help out and do everything to help show that hard work. I’m also quite comfortable living in the warmer climate in a hands on region. Its living in cities that made me want to come back as well as the business.
What’s your favourite thing to do in North Canterbury? My favourite thing to do is host friends here. I like to take them around the wine region, go for a swim in the river then have a beer and pizza at the brew moon. Showing other people around reminds me how cool and easy this place is.
Name your top three North Canterbury brands (other than your own!): I would say Terrace Edge, Georges Road Wines and Iron Ridge Sculpture Park as we are all on the same road and work hard together to build our road as a destination.
Featured Products
The Bone Line – Barebone Chardonnay
