The story of Dog Point is deeply rooted in the history of Marlborough's modern wine industry. It began with the formidable partnership of Ivan Sutherland and James Healy, two highly influential figures who were instrumental in the early success of the globally renowned Cloudy Bay winery, where Ivan was chief viticulturist and James was head winemaker.
After contributing significantly to Cloudy Bay's rise, Sutherland and Healy decided to return to a more hands-on approach, establishing Dog Point Vineyard in 2002. They leveraged Sutherland's long-held vineyards, some of which were planted as early as the late 1970s. This deep understanding of the region's terroir and a commitment to quality from the outset laid the foundation for Dog Point's future success.
The name "Dog Point" itself is a nod to Marlborough's early European settlement. It refers to a tussock and scrub-covered hill overlooking the Wairau Plains, where shepherds' dogs, often lost or strayed, eventually formed a wild pack. This historical anecdote adds a unique charm to the brand, and the native New Zealand 'ti kouka' (cabbage tree) proudly depicted on their label has become an iconic symbol of the vineyard.
The intriguing name "Dog Point" isn't just a catchy moniker; it carries a piece of Marlborough's early history within it. The name refers to a distinctive geographical feature: a tussock and scrub-covered hill that overlooks the vast Wairau Plains in Marlborough.
During the early days of European settlement in the region, shepherds would often bring their working dogs with them to manage flocks.However, in the rugged and expansive landscape, it was not uncommon for some of these dogs to get lost or stray from their handlers. Over time, these lost or abandoned dogs would gather on this particular hill, forming a wild, roaming pack.This elevated spot became known as "Dog Point" due to these canine inhabitants.
Ivan Sutherland and James Healy, the founders of Dog Point Vineyard, chose this name as a nod to this local history and a tribute to the land's heritage.It evokes a sense of place and connection to the pioneering spirit of Marlborough. Furthermore, the native New Zealand 'ti kouka' (cabbage tree), a common sight in the region and also depicted on their wine labels, reinforces this strong link to the land and its past.The name, therefore, is not merely branding but a reflection of the vineyard's deep roots in the Marlborough landscape.
Dog Point stands out for its unwavering commitment to organic viticulture. They are, in fact, New Zealand's largest certified organic vineyard by BioGro NZ. Their conversion to organic practices began in 2009, reflecting a deep respect for the land and a belief that healthy vineyards produce the best grapes.
Their organic approach encompasses several key practices:
Composting: Vine prunings and winery waste are mulched to create rich organic compost, enhancing soil health.
Cover Cropping: In spring, cover crops like buckwheat and phacelia are planted between the vines to encourage beneficial insects, aiding in natural pest control.
Natural Fertilization: Leachate from their composting process is applied to the vineyards to conserve moisture and improve soil structure.
Natural Grazing: Over the winter months, 2,500 sheep and 25 steers are brought onto the property to control grass and weed growth, while also enriching the soil with organic matter.
This holistic approach not only minimizes their environmental footprint but also contributes to the distinctive character and purity of their wines.
Dog Point has earned its popularity through a steadfast dedication to producing wines of uncompromising quality and unique character. Their reputation is built on several pillars:
Pioneering Spirit: As former key players at Cloudy Bay, Sutherland and Healy brought a wealth of experience and a desire to push boundaries. They continue to lead a movement in New Zealand wine, focusing on elegance, refinement, and age-worthiness.
Hand-Picked Grapes: All grapes are meticulously hand-picked, ensuring only the healthiest fruit is selected, which contributes to the delicacy and purity of their wines.
Minimal Intervention: In the winery, Dog Point champions a minimal intervention philosophy, allowing nature to take its course and expressing the true terroir of Marlborough. They utilize indigenous yeasts for fermentation, further enhancing the wine's authenticity.
Exceptional Range: While celebrated for their Sauvignon Blanc, Dog Point also produces highly regarded Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, showcasing their versatility and skill across different varietals.
Dog Point produces a focused portfolio of four wines, each a true expression of Marlborough:
Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc: This classic expression is known for its bright, fresh, citrus-driven profile, often with notes of honeydew melon, pear, and gala apple. It’s a very pure yet restrained Sauvignon Blanc, showcasing vibrant fruit, balanced acidity, and a refreshing, sometimes saline, finish. It's built to drink well on release but can also cellar gracefully.
Section 94 Sauvignon Blanc: This is Dog Point's barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc, a more alternative and complex style. Aged in older French oak barrels with extended lees contact, it offers a richer texture, complimentary flinty and smoky notes, and a greater capacity for aging. It’s considered a New Zealand classic.
Dog Point Chardonnay: A testament to Marlborough's potential beyond Sauvignon Blanc, their Chardonnay is a ripe, citrus-driven wine with characteristic biscuit, oatmeal, and mild flinty notes. It's full-bodied, finely structured, and can display notes of grilled citrus, lemon curd, and toasted nuts, with excellent aging potential.
Dog Point Pinot Noir: A highly perfumed and stylish Pinot Noir, typically showcasing generous cherry, plum, and redcurrant notes on the nose, with a lifted and succulent palate. It features well-integrated, fine-grained tannins and precise, focused acidity, evolving with savory notes like leather and forest floor with age.
The "Pack" is Friendly Now: While the name "Dog Point" originated from a marauding pack of wild dogs, today, there's a friendly pack of dogs that often greet guests at the vineyard, a charming contrast to the historical tale.
Biodiversity Beyond Grapes: Dog Point's organic philosophy extends beyond the vines. A significant area of their property is dedicated to pasture, landscaped lawns, and pond spaces with native plantings. They also have extensive organic vegetable gardens with roving chickens, orchards with beehives, olive trees, and pine nut trees, all harvested for staff and guests.
A "Ti Kouka" Icon: The distinct native New Zealand 'ti kouka' or cabbage tree is a prominent feature of the Dog Point landscape and is proudly depicted on their wine labels, making it a recognizable symbol of the brand.
Age-Worthy Sauvignon Blanc: While many Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs are enjoyed young, Dog Point's commitment to quality and their specific winemaking techniques, particularly with Section 94, allow their Sauvignon Blancs to age beautifully, developing further complexity.
Family Legacy: While Ivan and James remain involved, the next generation of the Sutherland family is now actively running the day-to-day operations, ensuring the continuation of Dog Point's commitment to excellence.
