THE JOURNEY
A legacy unveiled: The Herzog Family's Centuries-Old Wine Journey
In 1630, Hans’ ancestor Heinrich Herzog wears a ring bearing the Herzog crest when he presses it into wax, sealing an agreement to purchase a hillside vineyard towering over Switzerland’s Rhine Valley.
The Herzog’s have lived in this region for generations. First mentioned in the church almanac of 1482, they are farmers, tending their animals and modest vineyards clustered around the villages of Thal and Rheineck in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
Winegrowing, then, flows deep in the blood of Hans Herzog.
Hans was born on the same land, fell in love with Therese and together established their own vineyard and winery further down the Rhine river in the Zurich wine country.
From humble beginnings in the couple's garage, they became one of the foremost estates in the country. Therese, a committed epicure, ended her marketing career in 1992 to open a restaurant on the estate. She is a naturally vivacious host and people were soon queuing up to experience the combination of fine food, impeccable service, ambience and of course Hans' wines - serious, handcrafted wines for food. The restaurant won high praise and a prestigious Michelin Star.
Despite their Swiss success, Hans yearned for the perfect place to cultivate Bordeaux grapes and other varieties unsuited to Switzerland's challenging climate. His quest for the ideal terroir led him to New Zealand, where he discovered the perfect conditions in Marlborough.
In 1994, he acquired a valuable piece of land, once an apple orchard, and planted the first vines in 1996. The winery, completed in 1998, was just in time for the inaugural vintage to begin.
Once again, Hans Herzog Estate emerged as a leading artisan winery, crafting an array of acclaimed handcrafted wines cherished by prestigious restaurants worldwide.
Therese too, did not hold back, always eager for a challenge, unveiling the luxurious 'Herzog Gourmet Restaurant' in March 2000. Creating a resounding success of her Michelin-starred Swiss restaurant, granting guests the privilege of savouring Herzog wines as intended: shared among friends, paired with fine cuisine, all within the soothing embrace of a crackling fire or sunlit verandah.
In 2020, when the borders closed, sadly so did the restaurant and bistro. Hans and Therese, now with a small team, dedicate their time to their first love - wine. You can still taste the pure passion in our wines through our exclusive wine experiences or stay with us at our beautiful Vineyard Cottage.
The boutique family winery maintains its standing as one of the most cherished and esteemed estates in New Zealand.
Hans and Therese are still very much in love with each other...
