SAVING GRACE

Saving Grace is in the heart of the North Canterbury wine region, with the Three Deans range to the West and sheltered from the stiff sea wind by the Teviotdale hills. It can be a challenging place to grow grapes, the often fierce Nor’wester testing at times. Viticulturist Jean-Luc Dufour has tended the vines for over a quarter of a century, many of which he planted. A diversity of companion plants and the beneficial insects they encourage keep things in balance. Winemaker Krystal Palmer graduated with her Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology from Lincoln in 2012. She has experience across many facets of winemaking and has done vintages in Marlborough, Waipara, the United States and China.

Krystal Palmer is our winemaker. After four years tripping around the globe, Krystal returned home to Marlborough, but with itchy feet. Looking for a career change, Krystal bowled up to the local polytech open day, seeking inspiration. Inspiration was found and the rest is history – Krystal graduated with her Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology from Lincoln in 2012. Krystal has experience across many facets of winemaking, including assistant viticulturist and winemaker, and has done vintages in Marlborough, Waipara, United States and China. It is red wine that is Krystal’s passion, particularly a juicy pinot noir. “When I make Pinot Noir, it is in a hand off fashion. With minimal intervention, the purity and elegance of Pinot Noir really shines through.” When it comes to her job, it’s the opportunity to meet and work with amazing people that Krystal thrives on. “As well as the science, I love the art and creativity of winemaking. It is fluid, never stagnant – there are so many challenges and different branches to winemaking. I love that.” Outside of work hours, you’ll find Krystal with her family, on the stage singing, dancing or acting, or in the surf