Ata Rangi People: Ben

After years of globe-trotting, Ben put down his backpack and picked up pen and paper to complete a post-grad wine programme in Auckland. A love of the land and environment drew him to Martinborough. It proved pertinent as he has become a permanent fixture at Ata Rangi and also put down roots with his partner to make this place his home. Here’s a little more from the man himself on why he finally put the backpack into retirement.

How long has Martinborough been home for you?  

I arrived here with just a backpack in 2018 after vintage-hopping around the world. 4 years later, I’ve bought a house here with my partner and it really feels like home.

What made you want to join the wine industry? 

I’ve always been interested in climate and farming. Over the years, I discovered that wine is the product that best reflects the land it is grown from. So I enrolled in the post-graduate wine programme at Auckland Uni and the rest is history.   

What do you think makes Martinborough so special for wine? 

There are many reasons. The location of the area gives it a climate suited to growing grapes. But what is most unique, I think, about Martinborough is its soils. Each vineyard site is different, which gives a particular personality to the wines.  

What is your favourite season at Ata Rangi and why? 

I love the cooler season of 2017. Although it had difficulties with ripeness, I like the more acid driven and lighter styles of Chardonnay and Pinot noir.

What do you think is special about making wine at Ata Rangi? 

The people. We are a small team but one with incredible experience and an openness to share and learn from each other.  

When you’re not drinking wine, what’s your preferred indulgent refreshment? 

Not sure if it’s indulgent, but a nice cold beer does the trick!

If you weren’t making wine what would you be doing? 

My three loves are wine, music, and food so one of the other two. 

Just secretly, what’s your favourite Ata Rangi wine? 

2011 Craighall Chardonnay. Alongside the Pinot noir, I think Martinborough makes some of the best Chardonnay in New Zealand and this is an example of that.