Zephyr

Marlborough

The Glover family were one of the first to plant grapes in Marlborough’s Dillons Point sub-region in 1988, just as winemaking in the region was taking off. Nineteen years later, led by eldest son Ben, the family launched Zephyr, a range of single vineyard wines from their family farm. The name Zephyr means a gentle breeze, inspired by the prevailing wind that moderates their vineyards. It is also symbolised by the car of the same name. One of the original Glovers (Owen’s grandfather) owned one, and today their ‘company vehicle is the winged 1965 Mark 3 Zephyr. They also produce a very popular Zephyr MKIII Sauvignon Blanc. Through sustainable practices (plus more than 50% of their wines are certified organic), and a focus on expressing the unique characteristics of their vineyards, Zephyr produces wines that resonate with consumers worldwide.

Winemaker

Ben Glover

Ben’s distinguished career spans over 25 years, during which he has held pivotal roles, including Chief Winemaker and Director of Winemaking for esteemed brands such as Wither Hills, Lindauer, Huntaway, and Corbans. He also served as Group Winemaker for Accolade New Zealand, overseeing wine production across regions like Hawke’s Bay, Waipara, Marlborough, and Central Otago for brands such as Mud House. In 2016 he made the decision to leave his day job, to go live with the family wine brand, Zephyr.
Beyond his endeavours with Zephyr Wines, Ben co-founded ‘The Coterie’, an innovative, certified organic winemaking collective in Marlborough which fosters innovation and diversity within the region's wine landscape.

Ben's has extensive experience (over 25 years) as a national and international wine judge, reflecting his dedication to quality and his influential role in shaping New Zealand's wine industry.

Where the River Runs

The Opawa River runs along the southern boundary of their Dillons Point vineyard. Over the centuries, it has flooded and deposited fertile silt loam onto the land which today contribute to the vibrant aromatics and depth of flavour in Zephyr's wines.
The aspect is north-facing and the sub-region is described as ‘early country’, sheltered from the harsh southerly weather patterns, sitting in the lee of the Wither Hills to the south east of the Wairau Valley floor.

Importantly, the family is committed to organic viticulture, achieving full organic certification for over half of their estate in 2020. This milestone was marked by the release of their first certified organic wine, the 2020 Zephyr Chardonnay, which garnered the Champion Organic Wine trophy at the 2023 Marlborough Wine Show.
The remainder of the estate is due to be certified during 2025.