The acquisition of the 2,000 hectare site means Marris - also the chief winemaker at the company’s The Ned and The Kings' Series brands -  is in control of 2,265 hectares in the Waihopai Valley.

The size of the deal has not been disclosed by Marisco Vineyards.

According to the New Zealand wine company, sales are increasing at the equivalent of 100 hectares of vineyard a year so Marris will continue to look at other opportunities to purchase developed vineyards in order to meet long-term global demand.

Marris said: “This property is a prime viticultural site because of its position within a glacial valley filled with mineral rich soil and beautiful rolling foothills. We intend to plant our vineyards next season, but will also retain the traditions of high value sheep and beef production on the property. We are a Marlborough family and business through-and-through, we understand and are deeply committed to celebrating the historical, social and cultural significance of Leefield Station."

Marris adds “When we started looking for a new property we knew we wanted to keep our wine business within Marlborough. Our existing Waihopai Valley vineyard has won 33 gold medals and seven trophies in eight countries over the last three years which is a true testament to what the Waihopai Valley can produce if vineyards are grown and managed well."