From Lightbulb Moments to Summer Love – The Story of Melton Estate

Some of the best ideas start with a spark of inspiration and for Philip Caunter, owner of Melton Estate, those sparks came in the form of two memorable wine experiences one in Martinborough, the other across the ditch in Australia’s famous Yarra Valley. Both encounters would set Philip on a path to creating one of Selwyn’s most iconic bubbles - Summer Love Sparkling wine. 

A Wine Festival and a Train Ride 

Back in the early 90s, while working in Wellington, Philip went on a train journey to Martinborough’s newly launched Wine and Food Festival. At the time, Martinborough was emerging as one of New Zealand’s most exciting wine regions. Farmers had transformed paddocks into vineyards, producing top-quality wines that remained boutique while setting the market value. Ata Rangi and Palliser Estate stood out for their ability to showcase the region’s potential and the idea that wine could bring both economic and cultural success stuck with Philip.  

Life eventually brought Philip and his family back to Christchurch and when the opportunity arose to purchase an old vineyard in West Melton, he seized it, and Melton Estate was born. 

Moscato, Yarra Valley and The Birth of Summer Love 

Fast forward a few years and Philip found himself in Healesville, Yarra Valley, visiting some of Australia’s most renowned wineries – Domaine Chandon, Rochford Wines and Giant Steps. It was here that he discovered Moscato bubbles – a light, refreshing, slightly sparkling wine. The wine made an impression, but Selwyn’s climate was far from the hot, dry conditions that Moscato thrives in. 

Not to be put off by growing condition challenges Philip experimented swapping Moscato grapes for Riesling and Pinot Noir. With a little kiwi fine tuning Summer Love Sparkling was born. Crisp, refreshing and delicately fruity, the wine quickly became a Canterbury favourite and put Melton Estate on the wine map. 

Growth, Earthquakes, and Weddings 

Sometimes growth comes in unexpected ways. When Philips brother-in-law needed a place to marry, a modern restaurant was built in the middle of the vineyard, setting the scene for countless future celebrations. 

The Canterbury earthquakes devastated Christchurch’s hospitality scene, prompting people to look beyond the city for dining and event destinations, making Melton Estate a sought-after spot. 

During the COVID lockdown, Philip used the time to replant grapes, build a helipad and add a games lawn to the property.  

Putting Selwyn on the Wine Map 

Today Melton Estate is a thriving boutique winery, producing Pinot Gris, Riesling, Rose, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, plus a méthode traditionnelle using the traditional method of sparkling fermentation. Summer Love Sparkling is now widely distributed sold in New World supermarkets, Woolworths' Top 100 stores and even exported to Australia and the UK. 

While West Melton is not seen as a traditional wine region, Philip has worked hard to establish Melton Estate as a serious player. His wines are often the first taste of New Zealand wine for international visitors travelling on scenic rail journeys like the Trans Alpine, Trans Pacific, and Trans Northern routes. 

Looking Ahead 

Melton Estate continues to evolve, embracing the region’s potential while staying true to its boutique roots. With an ever-growing reputation, Philip remains focused on crafting exceptional wines and welcoming visitors to experience the warmth and hospitality that make Melton Estate a standout destination in Selwyn.