About the Winery
Folding Hill is a small family-owned vineyard nestled on a northern terrace of Bendigo Creek. It was established in 2003 by Tim and Nikki Kerruish and has been an integral part of family life for the couple and their 4 children ever since. In fact, the name arose when a young Matthew (now 22) enquired, “Why are those mountains folding?” as he gazed at the light and shadows of the Pisa range at dusk! The 4.5-hectare vineyard consists predominantly of Pinot Noir, with a small block of chardonnay planted in 2016. The location is exquisite, with stunning mountain views in all directions.
In addition to its beauty, the site also produces exceptional fruit. Bendigo’s long, hot summers and free-draining gravel soils provide our carefully selected clones and rootstocks with perfect growing conditions. Coupled with meticulous organic viticulture and low cropping levels the vines are enabled to produce fruit of the highest quality.
Our approach to winemaking is based on the traditional philosophy and practices of the ‘Old World’. We believe that hand-picking optimally ripe fruit and then gently guiding it through vinification with as little intervention as possible allows us to produce elegant wines with flavour and structure that authentically reflect the special place they come from – wines that really are “Handmade from Central Otago”
Meet the Team
Tim and Nikki Kerruish, the heart and soul of Folding Hill, met in the North Island over 30 years ago. As doctors, they were drawn to the allure of Central Otago’s breathtaking landscapes and world-class wines. With the guidance of legendary viticulturist Robin Dicey, they planted their first vines in 2003, embarking on a journey that would shape their family’s future.
Over the years, Tim and Nikki have nurtured not only their vineyard but also their four children: Matthew, Mollie, Hannah, and Izzy. Growing up amidst the vines, the children have developed a deep affection for Folding Hill. Today, they are actively involved in the business, with Matthew taking the reins of UK tasting events and embarking on a winemaking career, while the girls bring their creative flair to marketing.
