Nautilus Estate is a premium winery located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, one of the country's most renowned wine-producing areas. The winery was established in 1985 by the Hill-Smith family, who had a long history in the wine industry in Australia. Robert and Paula Hill-Smith founded Nautilus Estate with the goal of producing high-quality wines that would showcase the unique terroir of the Marlborough region.
The winery is named after the nautilus shell, which is a symbol of perfection and balance in nature. The Hill-Smiths chose this name to reflect their commitment to producing wines that are balanced, complex, and expressive of the Marlborough terroir.
Nautilus Estate has a 140-hectare estate vineyard located in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, where the soil is a mix of clay and gravel, providing excellent drainage for the vines. The winery also sources grapes from selected vineyards throughout the Marlborough region to create their wines.
The winery is best known for its Sauvignon Blanc, which is widely regarded as one of the best in New Zealand. The wine has won numerous awards and accolades, including a gold medal at the 2020 Decanter World Wine Awards and a score of 94 points from Wine Spectator. The Sauvignon Blanc is characterized by its vibrant acidity, intense fruit flavors, and long, refreshing finish.
Nautilus Estate is committed to sustainable vineyard practices and has implemented a range of measures to reduce its environmental impact. These include using organic and biodynamic farming methods, minimizing the use of chemicals and fertilizers, and recycling water and waste products. The winery has also installed solar panels to generate electricity and has invested in energy-efficient equipment to reduce its carbon footprint.
Overall, Nautilus Estate is a premium winery that produces high-quality wines that are expressive of the Marlborough terroir. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to excellence, Nautilus Estate is a leader in the New Zealand wine industry.