Burn Cottage

Central Otago

Burn Cottage is a boutique winery in Central Otago, renowned for its biodynamic approach to winemaking. Established in 2002, the estate was founded by Marquis and Dianne Sauvage, an American couple. After searching globally for the perfect vineyard site, they discovered a 24-hectare property in the foothills of the Pisa Range.
With no prior grape plantings, Burn Cottage was developed from scratch under the guidance of renowned biodynamic consultant Ted Lemon of Littorai Wines. The vineyard was cultivated using organic and biodynamic principles, focusing on soil health and natural vineyard balance.

Specialising in Pinot Noir, Burn Cottage quickly gained a reputation for producing elegant, expressive wines that reflect the unique terroir of Central Otago. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking has cemented Burn Cottage as one of New Zealand’s most respected wineries.

General Manager and Winemaker

Claire Mulholland

Claire Mulholland is a distinguished New Zealand winemaker renowned for her expertise in crafting exceptional Pinot Noir.

Raised on a 1,000-hectare farm in Maniototo, Central Otago, she developed a deep appreciation for the land and its cultivation from an early age. Following university Claire worked in the pioneering vineyards of this region such as Rippon, Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley. Ensuing vintages abroad were focussed on building up an international picture of Pinot Noir, working in Australia, Oregon and France, including Burgundy’s Cote de Nuit at Domaine De L’Arlot and Domaine Dujac.

Significant New Zealand winegrowing experience included roles as head winemaker at Martinborough Vineyard and Amisfield, before joining Burn Cottage Vineyard in 2010 as General Manager and Winemaker. At Burn Cottage, she oversees biodynamic farming practices and focuses on producing wines that authentically express their unique terroir.

Biodynamics in the Cromwell Basin

The Burn Cottage Vineyard is located in Central Otago’s Cromwell Basin, nestled in the foothills of the Pisa Range. The site is sheltered from both northerly and southerly winds by large hills and forms a beautiful, protected bowl, much like a modern amphitheatre.

This unique terroir is characterised by a combination of climate, soil composition, and elevation that contributes to the winery’s distinctive Pinot Noir.

The soils are a mix of schist-derived loess, gravel, and clay. The presence of windblown silts and deep mineral deposits enhances water retention and provides essential nutrients, resulting in wines with fine tannin structure and vibrant minerality.

Burn Cottage follows biodynamic farming principles, emphasising soil health and vineyard biodiversity. This approach enhances the expression of terroir, producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the site.