Babich Henderson Valley Vineyard
When Josip Babich, in 1919 moved to a 29 hectare (72 acres) wilderness property in Henderson at the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges, few would have envisaged that this would become the foundation stone for an impressive, high-achieving collection of vineyards and wineries taking quality New Zealand wines to the world.
Josip, who already had three years of winemaking experience to his credit, transformed the land into an orchard and also planted classical meunier grapes. He was helped by his brothers and later by his wife Mara.
Much has happened in the years since Josip began clearing bush. Grape varieties changed - nowadays Chardonnay and Pinot Noir flourish in the vineyard's relative warmth and loam-clay soils.
The property is home to the company's headquarters, head office and distribution centre. All Babich wines are blended, matured, bottled and distributed from the Henderson site.
Greater Auckland's urban encroachment, which has overwhelmed some of the region's other vineyards, means the Babich vineyard is now bordered by suburban homes. That would have amazed Josip and Mara.
Babich Wines is committed to Henderson and will continue to foster this iconic vineyard.
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