Hunter’s is the story of Marlborough—not just in name, but in spirit.
We set the standard for what this region could achieve, and we’ve been raising the bar ever since.
BEGINNING OF A LEGACY
When Ernie and Jane Hunter planted our first vines in 1979, they laid the foundation for a legacy built on vision, resilience, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. As Marlborough's oldest independent winery in continuous family ownership, Hunter's has grown into one of the region’s most respected producers. Under Jane’s leadership and with the support of her brother-in-law, Peter Macdonald, our wines have earned countless international accolades—a testament to decades of dedication and expertise.
Hunter’s is one of Marlborough’s most awarded wineries, continually innovating with a view to continue the pursuit of excellence.
The Next Generation
Now led by Jane’s nephews, Edward and James Macdonald, the next generation continues to refine and elevate Hunter’s wines, sharing them with the world. From Marlborough’s sun-drenched vineyards, we craft wines that reflect the purity and vibrancy of this land, generous, approachable, and always consistent. Hunter’s have always been, and will always be, the story of Marlborough.
“If there is one company that started the international story called Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc it is Hunter's. They got the magic started.”
1975-
When Irishman Ernie Hunter arrived in Marlborough, the region was still finding its feet. He saw something few others did, and backed it. With Australian, Jane Hunter by his side, he planted the first vines and founded Hunter’s. Within two vintages, every wine they produced was a National Wine Show winner. The standard was set.
1985-
Recognition came quickly. In 1986, Hunter’s put Marlborough on the world stage, winning The Sunday Times Vintage Festival in the UK with a Fumé Blanc. But just a year later, tragedy struck with Ernie’s sudden passing. Jane stepped forward—steadfast, visionary, and determined to carry the legacy on.
1990-
Under Jane’s leadership, the 1989 Sauvignon Blanc won Decanter’s Best Sauvignon in the world. Sparkling wine joined the portfolio with Hunter’s Brut. In 1991, Jane’s brother-in-law, Peter Macdonald, joined as General Manager, solidifying the family business. In 1993, Jane’s contribution to viticulture was honoured with an OBE. What began as vision was now a legacy.
1995-
Jane’s vision continued with the launch of MiruMiru™, which took top honours at the IWSC in London. But it wasn’t just about acclaim—Hunter’s commitment to the land was recognised with Marlborough’s Rural Environment Award, pioneering sustainability well ahead of the curve.
2000-
As the winery matured, Jane’s leadership was recognised at the highest level with a CNZM. Export growth surged, and the Hunter’s name became synonymous with Marlborough itself—trusted, consistent, and enduring.
2010-
The next chapter began. Jane was inducted into the NZ Wine Hall of Fame, becoming the first woman to do so. As long-time winemaker Gary Duke stepped back, Jane’s nephews James and Edward Macdonald stepped in, marking the beginning of a new generation of family stewardship.
2015-
The accolades kept coming. Jane received Australia’s Wolf Blass AM Award and was named a Fellow of NZ Winegrowers. In 2019, she was inducted into the NZ Business Hall of Fame. A legacy not just of wine, but of leadership.
2020 & Beyond
Today, Hunter’s remains Marlborough’s oldest independent winery under continuous family ownership. With an unwavering focus on sustainability and a deep respect for the land, we continue to shape what Marlborough wine can be—pure, vibrant, and globally respected.
