Ascension Vineyard is owned and operated by Darryl and Bridget Soljan. Generations of the Soljan family have been making wine in New Zealand since the 1930s, and in the words of Darryl and Bridget life is too short to drink boring wine. Ascension vineyard was planted in the mid 1990s, and is situated on a steep north facing hillside in the iron rich soils of Matakana north of Auckland City. This situation combined with a warm maritime climate and meticulous vineyard management result in high quality wines that are both widely acclaimed in the press, and keenly sought by wine enthusiasts. Key varieties include Riesling and Viognier. Production is small, just 4,000 cases per year, and sells out quickly mainly to cellar visitors and mail order clients. The Sojon’s insist that the best way to enjoy their wines is on a visit to the vineyard which includes an award winning restaurant and regularly plays host to events and outdoor concerts that range from jazz and opera, to comedy and contemporary music.