Kemblefield Estate Winery Descriptions

Description 1 of 1

In the early 1990’s Californians John Kemble and Kaar Field began their search for a vineyard and winery to establish what has become Kemblefield Estate Winery. John researched several potential sites in New Zealand before finally making his choice in Mangatahi, Hawkes Bay. He felt it’s unique microclimate, reminiscent of his California homeland, was the ideal place to combine his winemaking knowledge with superb Hawke’s Bay grapes. John Kemble is our Chief Winemaker and Director and has over 30 years wine making experience. He has a Plant Science Degree from the University of California, Davis, and is a member of the American Society of Enology and Viticulture. Fifteen years with Ravenswood Winery in Sonoma, California, in their developing years gave John his love of winemaking and Zinfandel, the grape varietal he has introduced to New Zealand. The move to New Zealand has meant adapting some of his winemaking methods to suit Hawkes Bay. In the early days, acquiring suitable grapes was not easy. Now, John grows all his own grapes, giving the control needed to produce consistently fine wines. Living on the Estate, John is never far from “the office” but he does enjoy time with his children Isabella and Francesca and dog Zinny. And his own favourite wine varietal…Zinfandel of course! – Description from iskicm

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