The 1990s were a time of discovery and courage in Marlborough. Deep in the Waihopai Valley, Bryan and Jan Johnson had the audacity to establish 180 hectares of estate vineyards on land considered too hard, too dry and too unfertile for wine.

It was a venture that started with a passion for the land. This pioneering spirit established one of New Zealand's most successful family-run wineries, now exporting eight varietals to 35 countries.

Today, Spy Valley's commitment remains to the land and to the people who tend it - they are simply farmers at heart, nurturing soil and vine to cultivate the complexities in their wine. And they're mindful that it's their focus on sustainability which will ensure guardianship of their land for generations to come. Spy Valley has been accredited under the New Zealand Sustainable Winegrowing scheme. This initiative promotes economically and environmentally sustainable vineyard management.