THE TEAM
The high quality of our wines is the result of harnessing the vital elements of land, climate, nature and people; and through gentle encouragement harmonising these elements. The results are unique wines, wines that are a true expression of their origin.
Our talented and passionate team led by John van der Linden (Viticulture) and Matthew Mitchell (Winemaking) have been with us from Braided Rivers' inception. These two men unified the Braided River team with a common goal; to produce wines that are a pleasure to drink and offer exceptional value for money.
At 9 years of age John planted his first vine and he has continued to spend his life nurturing grapevines. He understands what vines need, how they grow and how to encourage the best results from them. John’s primary role is to balance the elements of climate, soil and nature to produce outstanding grapes that will result in excellent wine.
As a young man, Matt had a dream to create magnificent wine. Matt’s formal qualifications in winemaking were enhanced by crafting wine not only in New Zealand, but also in the Yarra Valley in Australia and the Willamette Valley in the USA. After gaining valuable expertise he then returned home to his native New Zealand. His natural skill and innate understanding of the key winemaking elements of balance and character mean that he strives to preserve the intense natural flavours that flourish in the fruit, crafting distinctive wines with texture and structure.
John and Matt also share an avid belief in sustainability; they see it as the means by which the reputation of Marlborough and its wines will continue to earn worldwide acclaim.
