Horst and Wendy Hillerich bought their Karangahake property in 1989, with the intention of establishing their own boutique winery and restaurant.

German born, Horst, trained in the Rheingau region of Germany. He studied further in Wurzberg and worked in different regions of Germany and Switzerland before coming to New Zealand for a five week holiday in 1987!

Something about the country held his attention, as he forwent his return ticket and took up residence.

He met Wendy in 1988 and a year later they discovered their property in the beautiful Karangahake Gorge. They began winemaking immediately in the garage on the property and converted the hayloft into their tasting room. This opened to the public in December 1990. In 1993 the winery was built.The restaurant was also opened in the same year in what had previously been the horse stables. The accommodation was developed in the original tasting area and had its first occupants staying on the first day of this millennium.

Nestled high above the Ohinemuri River the buildings were designed and built in Latvian style by Englishman, Nick Frost. Nick had done a work exchange with the Moscow Opera, whilst working as a set designer at Covent Garden in London and spent some of that time in Latvia. Being only 200m off the main highway the Estate is easily accessible but distant enough to be quiet and relaxing.

Horst, Wendy and their two children have created a tranquil haven, where they invite you to enjoy their wines, sample their food and spend some time in the wonderful Karangahake Gorge, which is famed for its history, walking tracks and sheer beauty.