It has also just received the coveted Gold Grapes Award from NZ Master of Wine Bob Campbell. In 2014, Craggy Range was named by US publication Wine Enthusiast, as New World Winery of the Year.
Family owned, Craggy Range was established in 1997 by Brisbane’s Terry Peabody and family. His wife Mary, daughter Mary-Jeanne Hutchinson, grandson David Peabody, and other passionate family members are active brand ambassadors alongside their dedicated team, building an international reputation.
Seeing Craggy Range listed on leading restaurant wine lists, both here and overseas, is a delight and also a testament to the family’s focus.
The Craggy Range story began back in 1993, when Terry and Mary Peabody decided to create a family legacy for future generations. Based on the family’s love of fine wine, they decided to create a winery estate somewhere in the world, and started searching for the bare land on which to build their dream.
The journey took them from France and America to Australia then finally New Zealand, where leading viticulturist Steve Smith helped find the best sites — Gimblett Gravels Vineyard in Hawke’s Bay and the Te Muna Road Vineyard outside Martinborough, both on the north island. As a hugely successful businessman (Transpacific Industries) with interests spanning several continents — from the USA and Canada to Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Terry Peabody could afford to indulge his passion for Craggy Range and invest in making the winery amongst the world’s best. Three years ago, the Peabodys set up a 1000-year trust, so the legacy would live on, and Craggy Range would never be sold.
Now, the Craggy Range magic is being shared with guests too, who can stay at the exclusive lodge accommodation at Giants Winery at Hawke’s Bay. The Craggy Range Lodge is amongst New Zealand’s newest premier winery experiences. As part of the lodge stay, you get Michael Bancks, one of New Zealand’s top sommeliers, who hosts an in-lodge private wine tasting of latest release and rare wines.
Featuring four luxurious ensuited king bedrooms and spacious open-plan living, there is also a well-equipped chef’s kitchen, formal living area with open fireplace, in-ground pool, and private courtyard with uninterrupted views of Te Mata Peak. What more could you ask for?
The award-winning Terrôir restaurant, conceived by Mary Peabody, also brings “a serious touch of glamour”, according to Bob Campbell MW. Set among the vineyards Terrôir regularly receives domestic and international accolades.
In another era, Terry and Mary Peabody were owners of iconic Brisbane restaurant The Fountain Room at Queensland Cultural Centre in the 1980s. The couple now divide their time between Queensland, New Zealand and Whistler, Canada, where they own a private ski lodge.
Craggy Range is certainly shooting for the stars. As Campbell notes, “Craggy Range has … made a massive contribution to wine tourism …” It is a great affirmation for the Peabodys, whose long-term commitment is for Craggy Range to be one of New Zealand’s great wine producers.
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