The land on which Tussock Hill, our Home Vineyard is located was originally part of a large sheep farm situated on the volcanic Port Hills of Christchurch. In 1998 a 10 acre block of this farm was purchased by Robin Woodsford and his partner Julie with a vision to establish an organic vineyard and olive grove.
Over the following two decades they worked hard to turn their dream into a reality. The bare tussock hillside was planted with Pinot Noir vines, olive trees and native plantings. Both Robin and Julie believed strongly in following organic and biodynamic practices and in 2016 they gained official organic winegrowers certification.
However in 2017 it was time for Robin and Julie to move on to ventures anew and Tussock Hill Vineyard was for sale. Graham was working as a carpenter on a property overlooking the vines of Tussock Hill. On finding out that the vineyard was for sale Graham knew that he had found his passion. He convinced his wife Melaina, parents and siblings that the purchase and development of Tussock Hill could be an incredible new venture to be enjoyed by everyone in the Targett Family.
And what an adventure it has been so far! Graham and Sally manage our two vineyards, our second vineyard in Waipara was purchased in early 2018. We are in the process of converting and certifying this as Organic.
Melaina manages the Cellar Door restaurant and Vineyard Retreat accommodation with our incredible team of staff.
Everyone in the family has a part to play in the running and development of our properties, including the youngest members of the Targett family aged 8 and 5.
