When Sophie and I took over Mt Rosa in 2026, we knew our first harvest would be memorable.

What we didn't know was that we'd be walking into one of the most challenging vintages Central Otago has experienced in more than 30 years.

The season tested everyone. Frosts, unpredictable weather and a difficult growing season meant lower yields across the region. Around us, vineyard managers and winemakers spoke of it as the toughest harvest in decades. For many growers, it was simply about getting fruit safely into the winery.

As newcomers to the industry, it certainly wasn't the gentle introduction we might have hoped for.

But if there's one thing we've learned since arriving in New Zealand, it's that farming—and winemaking—is all about resilience.

There were early mornings checking frost fans before sunrise, long days in the vineyard, plenty of anxious conversations about the weather, and more cups of coffee than we could count. Throughout it all, we've been incredibly fortunate to have the support of our amazing team, our viticulturist Gary Crabb, our winemaker Dean Shaw, our neighbours and the wider Gibbston wine community.

One thing that has become clear is just how special this place is. There is a genuine sense of community here. Everyone wants to see each other succeed, and we're proud to now be part of that.

Although yields may have been lower than normal, we remain excited about the quality of the fruit that came into the winery. Sometimes the most challenging seasons produce wines with remarkable concentration and character, and we're looking forward to seeing this vintage develop over the coming months.

For Sophie and me, this harvest wasn't just about grapes. It marked our first vintage as custodians of Mt Rosa.

Years ago, we made the decision to leave the UK and start a new life in New Zealand. Owning a family winery was a dream we never imagined would become reality, and despite the challenges of our first season, we wouldn't change a thing.

This vintage will always hold a special place in our hearts. Not because it was the easiest, but because it reminded us why we came here in the first place—to be part of something bigger than ourselves, to care for this beautiful piece of Gibbston, and to continue the story of Mt Rosa for future generations.

Here's to many more harvests ahead.

Greg & Sophie
Mt Rosa Wines