Framingham Wines

Framingham, based in Marlborough, New Zealand, is a producer that stands apart for its deep commitment to Riesling excellence and certified organic viticulture. Since 1981, when their first vines went into the ground, Framingham has built a reputation that extends far beyond New Zealand's borders. Organic certification arrived in 2014 for the 19.5-hectare holding at the estate's core, a vineyard that anchors a diverse portfolio of grape varieties, each receiving equal precision and attention.

About Framingham Wines

Framingham was established in 1994, but the vineyard's story reaches back to 1981, making it home to some of the oldest Riesling plantings in Marlborough. The estate achieved organic certification in 2014, reflecting a philosophy that the vineyard's health and the grapes themselves drive quality in the finished wine. In January 2020, Andrew Brown took over as head winemaker from Dr Andrew Hedley, who had guided the house for 18 years. Brown brings seven years of experience as assistant winemaker at Framingham, plus consulting work in celebrated wine regions including Oregon, Central Otago, and Alsace. His reverence for Riesling matches his predecessor's, and it shows in every bottle.

Framingham's approach to winemaking reflects careful decision-making at every stage. Their Classic Riesling draws from parcels that are individually vinified, with a portion matured in neutral oak vessels to enhance depth without dominating the grape's inherent flavour profile. The Late Harvest Riesling, sourced exclusively from the estate vineyard, blends late-picked parcels with botrytised bunches to create richness tempered by vibrant acidity—a wine that balances sweetness with drive.

The Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc demonstrates an unconventional approach: a small percentage of grapes are fermented on skins, another portion in oak and acacia barrels, then blended together and aged for six months on lees. This technique adds layers of texture and flavour that move beyond the typical Marlborough style. The Pinot Gris, inspired by Alsace traditions, is hand-picked and spends seven months on lees, developing generous notes of baked apple, quince, and cream. The Pinot Noir, blended from four Wairau Valley sites including the estate vineyard, presents an elegant character marked by ripe stone fruits and toasted wood notes. Wine writer Jamie Goode has noted that "Framingham's regular range offers some of New Zealand's best value for money."

Framingham Wines Wines in Our Collection

The 2023 Marlborough Classic Riesling (91pts James Suckling, 92pts Cameron Douglas MS) represents the producer's heart—a wine built on those heritage vines and the winemaking philosophy that defines the house. The 2023 F-Series Marlborough Old Vine Riesling (92pts across James Suckling and Cameron Douglas MS) draws directly from those oldest plantings on the estate.

The Pinot Gris range offers two recent vintages: the 2022 (91pts, with 92pts from Cameron Douglas MS) and 2023 (91pts, with endorsement from Jancis Robinson herself at 91pts). For red wine drinkers, the 2022 Marlborough Pinot Noir (92pts overall, 93pts Cameron Douglas MS) delivers the elegant, food-friendly profile Framingham is known for. Each wine reflects careful sourcing and handling, whether from the certified organic estate or selected partner sites across Marlborough.

Food Pairing

Framingham's Sauvignon Blanc—with its skin fermentation component and oak ageing—pairs beautifully with seafood risotto, grilled scallops, or goat's cheese salads where textural richness matters. The Pinot Gris, with its baked apple and cream notes, suits roasted chicken, pork with apple sauce, and creamy mushroom dishes. The Classic Riesling works with spiced Asian cuisine, shellfish, or as an aperitif on its own. The Pinot Noir's toasted wood character and ripe stone fruit flavours align with duck breast, herb-crusted lamb, or earthy vegetable terrines. The Late Harvest Riesling stands alone as a meditation wine or pairs with blue cheese and stone fruit desserts.

Why is Framingham's Riesling particularly respected?

Framingham tends some of the oldest Riesling vines in Marlborough, planted in 1981. Head winemaker Andrew Brown worked in Alsace and brings deep reverence for the variety. Jancis Robinson rates them among the finest Riesling producers globally.

Is Framingham's vineyard certified organic?

Yes. The 19.5-hectare estate vineyard achieved organic certification in 2014. The certification reflects their approach to quality—believing that vineyard health drives excellence in the finished wine.

What makes the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris distinctive?

Both undergo extended lees ageing—Sauvignon on lees for six months after blending separate fermentations (skins, oak, and stainless steel), Pinot Gris for seven months. This adds texture and complexity beyond typical Marlborough styles.

Who makes Framingham wines?

Andrew Brown, head winemaker since 2020, leads Framingham in Marlborough, New Zealand. The estate was established in 1994, with vineyards planted from 1981. Brown brings seven years as assistant winemaker at Framingham plus experience in Oregon, Central Otago, and Alsace.

What style of wine does Framingham make?

Framingham specialises in Riesling and certified organic viticulture. They also produce Sauvignon Blanc (green, flinty; 92pts), Pinot Gris (aromatic, floral; 91pts), and Pinot Noir (light, perfumed; 92pts). Techniques include skin fermentation, oak ageing, and lees contact for layered complexity.

How much does Framingham wine cost?

Framingham wines range between £15.30 and £26.15. Entry-level Sauvignon Blancs start around £15, core range Riesling and Pinot Gris sit between £18–£19, and their premium F-Series bottlings reach £25–£26.