Dunstan Road - Alexandra

Their Story

Marc Hatfield’s love of fermentation started as a teenager, brewing beer and cider in his parents’ garage. This passion later became Dunstan Road Wines.

After working in vineyards across Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay, and finishing a horticulture degree at Lincoln University, Marc and his father bought a small block of land between Alexandra and Clyde in 2001.

Marc’s goal was simple: grow great grapes and make wines that truly show the place they come from.

He saw that the Alexandra Basin, sheltered between the Old Man Range and the Haehaeata Range, was perfect for elegant Pinot Noir. Warm days and cool nights help the grapes develop intensity, balance and unique character.

By day Marc planted vineyards and set up irrigation in Bendigo and Bannockburn. In his spare time he turned the home block — once used for merino sheep and full of rabbits — into neat rows of carefully chosen vines and a small winery.

The first Dunstan Road wine was released in 2011. Soon after, Sarah joined the team. She helped build the cellar door and introduce the wines at farmers’ markets and to visitors arriving via the Otago Central Rail Trail.

Today Dunstan Road Wines is still a family business. Marc looks after the vines and makes the wine. Sarah runs the business side, cares for the children and the chooks, and helps welcome guests to the tasting room. They farm sustainably with minimal intervention and produce small-batch wines that capture the character of the Alexandra Basin.

Every bottle reflects the seasons, the vineyard and the family’s belief that great wine comes from patience, hard work and a real connection to the land.

Their Philosophy

They keep yields low on purpose and farm sustainably by hand, focusing on healthy vines and high-quality fruit rather than large quantities.

Central Otago is near the limit of where grapes can grow. It has extreme weather — long hot summer days, cool nights, dry autumns and frosty winters. These tough conditions naturally keep yields small and produce concentrated, flavorful berries.

Marc produces fine quality

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir Rose

Reisling

Pinot Gris

Gewurztraminer

Check out this boutique vineyard when you are next in Alexandra.