Osawa Wines is a local winery located in Hawkes Bay. The company produces eight different varietals of wine in a sustainable practice.
What is your company background, how did you start the business? Who are the owners?
"In 2004, Mr Taizo Osawa, a Japanese wine lover (based in Japan), began a journey to find the perfect location to start a vineyard. It was a journey that took him to America, Australia and finally, New Zealand. Twelve months and many miles later, Mr Osawa discovered Hawke’s Bay, drawn to the region’s climate and scenery. He bought a 100 acre sheep farm in 2005 located at Maraekakaho, on the western side of Hawke’s Bay. The single estate vineyard sits on a river terrace in the beautiful Mangatahi Valley, alongside the clear waters of the Ngaruroro River. Located between the Kaweka and Ruahine mountain ranges, the climate is characterised by low rainfall, hot days and cool nights."
What is the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
"Our first vintage was 2008 and we grow eight different varietals, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese all single estate. We are one of only a very few wineries in NZ that grow Sangiovese and produce it as a 100 per cent varietal red and a rosé. We produce three ranges of wine: Winemakers Collection, Prestige Collection and Flying Sheep."
Has there been any recent company news?
"In ten vintages Osawa Wines has received five trophies, 25 Gold Medals, three best in Class, 36 Silver Medals and 95 Bronze Medals. We have been sustainable since our first vintage and became 100 per cent organic (Bio Gro) in 2016."
What are the plans for the business moving forward, is there any expansion on the horizon?
"We are currently exporting to Japan, China and America, and looking for more opportunities."
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
"We do not have a cellar door and concentrate on selling into premium on and off premise, the full range of our wines can also be purchased online at www.osawawines.co.nz."
