Peregrine Wine Estate | Central Otago, New Zealand | Rugby
We first came to hear about Peregrine Wines in Central Otago through the International Referee Wayne Barnes, a member of SWC, who went to visit the NZ owner, Lindsay McLachlan, who refereed Internationally in the 90’s. For those of you with good memories he had control of the England v Scotland game in 1994 when England won in the last minute – Mr McLachlan awarded a last-minute penalty when the Scots transgressed – again! 15-14 was the final score and England won a famous victory.
Sporting Connection
Lindsay McLachlan is a former international rugby referee, who controlled 8 test matches during his career which ended in 1994 as the game was about to turn professional. His sons, Fraser and Blair are both involved in the family winery and played rugby, cricket and basketball up to the provincial age group level. Whilst no longer formally involved in the game, the rugby and refereeing fraternity is a tight group and current and former players and referees regularly visit Peregrine when visiting the deep South.
The Wine
Long before he blew the whistle to kick off his first test match, Lindsay had a passion for farming and winemaking. His dream was realised with Peregrine Wines, his boutique family winery which is located at the heart of New Zealand’s South Island in Central Otago. This region is the southernmost grape growing regional in the world at latitude 45 South. With vineyards nestled on north-facing slopes in breath-taking glacial carved valleys and on the shores of crystal-clear lakes, this is New Zealand’s only inland and elevated wine growing region. An environment ideal for growing Pinot Noir and aromatic white varietals (Pinot Gris and Riesling). Named in honour of New Zealand’s endemic falcon, Peregrine has gained a reputation both domestically and internationally as one of New Zealand’s iconic wine brands since the first vintage in 1998.
The Winemaker Says
“As a family we are thrilled to be in the team with the Sporting Wine Club. We share the values which stem from crafting great wine and enjoying the camaraderie in sport, and look forward to a long and enjoyable relationship with the club.”
-Lindsay McLachlan
