When Daren Clark joined Pyramid Valley for the 2023 vintage as part of The Roots Fund scholarship, it wasn’t just about making wine – it was about deepening his understanding of viticulture and crafting wines that truly breathe of their place.
The Roots Fund, an organisation dedicated to creating opportunities in wine for underrepresented communities, brought Daren from the U.S. to New Zealand. Here, he worked as a vintage intern alongside winemaker Huw Kinch, immersing himself in the world of organic and biodynamic winemaking.
Daren’s journey to the world of wine began during his time in the restaurant industry, where blind tastings sparked his curiosity. After harvest experiences in Napa, he was ready to expand his horizons. Although unfamiliar with Pyramid Valley, he knew of Huw’s reputation. His time in North Canterbury offered him a comprehensive experience, from vineyard tasks like bird netting and shoot thinning to applying biodynamic preparations and having a hand in the entire vinification process.
“These views and practices are something I will carry with me throughout my career as a wine grower. This harvest has given me a deeper insight into viticulture and trying to farm the best way possible for the site and aim for certain quality of fruit while doing so.”
For Daren, Pyramid Valley’s practices were transformative. “These views and practices are something I will carry with me throughout my career as a wine grower,” he shared. Working with organic and biodynamic viticulture gave him a new lens to view farming and winemaking, teaching him to align practices with the specific needs of a site. He credits Huw’s guidance for shaping his understanding of how meticulous farming and intentional cellar practices create exceptional wines.
Daren hopes to challenge perceptions of New Zealand wines beyond bulk Sauvignon Blanc. He advocates for the global recognition of North Canterbury’s fine wines and urges others in the trade to experience the region firsthand. “I recommend this region to anyone serious about making fine wines, especially Pinot and Chardonnay,” he said.
Now as Cellar Lead at Domaine Drouhin in Oregon, Daren carries with him the lessons of Pyramid Valley. Reflecting on his time in New Zealand, he said, “This harvest ranks at the top of all my experiences. It has given me a deeper insight into viticulture and trying to farm the best way possible for the site and aim for certain quality of fruit while doing so.”
Daren’s story is a testament to the power of connection, community, and mentorship in winemaking. His experiences through The Roots Fund and Pyramid Valley are just the beginning of a promising career dedicated to crafting wines of place and purpose.
Natalie Grace
Brand & Marketing Manager
Pyramid Valley, Smith & Sheth, Lowburn Ferry
Aotearoa New Zealand Fine Wine Estates
Quick fire with Daren Clark
Natalie Grace: Which Pyramid Valley wine is your favourite child?
Daren Clark: Orange! The most unique wine of them all especially with the stigma behind orange wine in general. This is not your ordinary orange wine. The black sheep of the family are usually the surprise of them all.
NG: You’re at a wine bar. What do you order?
DC: 2016 Field of Fire, with or without food.
NG: If we are lucky enough to come and visit your hometown, where do we eat and drink?
DC: Tavola (Charlottesville, VA). We eat the whole menu and drink Barolo and whites from Alto Adige. This restaurant is true to Italian cuisine and is the most consistent restaurant in the area. They never miss a beat from weekday nights to busy weekends. Plus, it’s an open kitchen and the playlist is always good.
Tasting notes
“Earth Smoke demonstrates power and elegance with those smoky characteristics that is given in the name. It gives a great spice note that showcase the soils of clay and chalk. This wine reminds me of the cote de Beaune.” – Earth Smoke Pinot Noir
“A smooth and delicate wine that also showcases the vineyard but gives you more light red fruits that remind me of the Cote de Nuits.” – Angel Flower Pinot Noir
“Lions Tooth and Field of Fire exemplify Chardonnay at its finest! They stand up against Chardonnays from all over the world. Acidity, complexity, balance, and fruit these wines blind tasted could come from Europe (white Burgundy) but they showcase North Canterbury soils. Well-rounded and well made very thoughtful wines.”