Proudly family owned, Urlar Estate produces outstanding single vineyard wines using organic and biodynamic principles.
Urlar is a Gaelic word that means “The Earth”. Our desire is to bring an abundance of life back to our ancient soils so you can discover the purity of flavor inherent in the land. Our journey from the highlands of Scotland to the stony soils and cool climate of Gladstone, Wairarapa has cemented our love for all things pure and true. We are thrilled to present our stunning range of wine for you to enjoy.
Founders and owners Angus and Davina Thomson hail from Scotland. As a fifth generation farmer and a family history in distilling (both grandfathers were in the whisky business) Angus’ love of the land is inherent. Angus, Davina and their three young children embrace their new life downunder.
Sauvignon Blanc
Expressive notes of ripe gooseberries, capsicum and a hint of passionfruit. The palate is full and rich derived from the barrel portion with a beautiful thread of acidity giving the wine great length and intensity.
2016: 91 points, Editor's Choice, Wine Enthusiast
Pinot Noir
An elegant wine with dark cherry and plum aromas intermingled with cedar and spice. The palate is refined with a silky texture that with time in the glass develops some lovely savory nuances.
2017: 92 points, Editor's Choice, Wine Enthusiast
2015: 92 points, Editor's Choice, Wine Enthusiast
A Pinot Noir of elegance and complexity at this price is a relatively rare find these days. This wine, from the biodynamically farmed vineyards of this family-owned winery at the bottom of the north island, shows a lovely balance of bright fruit and savory characters. Aromas and flavors of red currant, strawberry leaf, rhubarb and flowers are wreathed in savory, sinewy tannins and tangy acidity.
2012: 93 points, James Suckling
A very toasty, spicy nose with plenty of mocha and hard, brown baking spices, earthy notes and dark-cherry fruit. Quite brooding. The palate has good shape to it, with light, fleshy fruit through the middle, while the tannins hold fine, long, flavors of red fruits, mocha and raspberry. Smooth tannins to close.
2012: 91+ points, Robert Parker
Pale ruby with a hint of purple, the 2012 Pinot Noir offers red currants, red cherries and kirsch notes with nuances of underbrush, potpourri and allspice. Light to medium-bodied, it is very elegant and fine in the mouth with plenty of complexity and a good long finish.