Brightwater Vineyards

Returning to Nelson after years of expatriate life, Gary and Valley Neale brought with them a burning passion for fine wine and a desire to make it!

The objective was to establish a vineyard and winery in Nelson that would be considered among New Zealand’s finest. Today, they are proud to be recognised as one of Nelson's premiere boutique wineries. Situated on the Hope Plains of Nelson, the Brightwater vineyards rest at the top of an elevated river terrace overlooking the picturesque village of Brightwater.

"Nelson is a fantastic place to live and make wine, and the rest of the world is starting to realise it".

Visit Brightwater Vineyards's website

Meet Steve Gill

Steve has been making wine for over 20 years. Vintages in Burgundy at Domaine Dujac, Napa Valley at Saintsbury, in Alsace and the Mosel Germany. In New Zealand he has been winemaker at artisan producers Dry River, Greenhough, Richmond Plains and Te Mania. Steve loves the magic and alchemy of winemaking. It is hard work but the reward is a glass full of pleasure and joy shared with friends and family.

Steve is a passionate Liverpool football supporter and enjoys doing pottery in his spare time.