Sato

Central Otago, New Zealand

Sato Wines began when Yoshiaki and Kyoko Sato left their banking careers in the early 2000s to pursue winemaking. Their journey took them from Japan and London to France, where they apprenticed with a number of esteemed winemakers, honing their love for low-intervention technique. In 2006, they moved to New Zealand, studied viticulture at Lincoln University, and worked at organic estates Felton Road and Mount Edward. Sato Wines was founded in 2009, sourcing organic grapes from Central Otago. In 2016, they established their own biodynamic vineyard from scratch, La Ferme de Sato, and released their first vintage in 2019.

Sato Wines is now recognized as a leader in natural winemaking in New Zealand. Their commitment to biodynamic and organic practices and minimal intervention produces iconic wines that are sought after worldwide. Their philosophy emphasises patience and respect for the vineyard, marrying traditional technique with innovative low-intervention practices.