In 2002 the Porter family returned from the UK to New Zealand after many years away. Coming back to Canterbury in New Zealand's South Island to make their home at Bellbird Spring in the Waipara Valley.
Lying 60 kilometres north of Canterbury in New Zealand’s South Island, the Waipara Valley enjoys a cool climate with low rainfall and long, sunny autumns. This dry, ‘Indian Summer’ allows our fruit to ripen slowly during a long growing season with remarkably similar conditions to those found in Alsace.
Owner/winemaker Guy Porter traveled the world working vintages in many countries, before returning to plant in Canterbury. The family own 2 organic blocks, the Home Block, where his parents currently live, and his own block, romantically named Block 8.
Wine making at Bellbird spring is typified by hand harvesting, whole bunch pressing of white varieties or hand plunging reds. Wines are generally naturally fermented or aged in old oak barriques, reflecting an artisan style. We craft small lots from individual vineyards allowing the identity of the site and vintage to express itself.
All wines under the Bellbird Spring label are organically produced, and all new releases certified organic. Along with naturally processed Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Rose and Pinot Noir, Guy has produced a small quantity of stellar wines, such as the critically acclaimed ‘Sous Voile’, a flor aged pinot gris, and 2 VDN style dessert wines.