Our Story
Our Story
Alpha Domus is nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest wine region.
The story of Alpha Domus began in 1989 when founders the Ham Family, Anthonius and Leonarda, along with their sons purchased 20 hectares of bare land in an area of the Western Heretaunga plains, later to become known as the Bridge Pa Triangle Wine District.
The horticultural family saw the potential of the land for viticulture believing it offered a climatic and soil profile that had the potential to produce world class wines.
Pioneers in the area they established one of the first wineries and were instrumental in the formation of The Bridge Pa Triangle Wine District, giving the sub-region an identity as a premium wine growing area of Hawke’s Bay.
Family still remains cornerstone, the passion and commitment that drove the family back then continues today. Alpha Domus remains 100% family-owned and operated.
The philosophy is to remain authentic and relevant outside of trends. Handcrafting wines that are well made, accessible and give pleasure.
The importance of quality and expert craftmanship are paramount, always with the inspiration to create beautiful wines of worth.
Three Generations: Paulus Ham, the late Ton Ham, Beatrix and Kathryn Ham.
The name Alpha Domus was derived from the first initials of the founders names in age descending order. Anthonius, Leonarda, Paulus, Henrikus and Anthonius. Domus is Latin for home.
The Alpha Domus wines are presented in 3 distinctive ranges.
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1
SPECIAL RESERVE
The founders vision for estate grown wines crafted only in the best years from Alpha Domus’ finest parcels. Includes the standout Aviator Cabernet Merlot, The Ace Syrah, and The Batten Chardonnay. -
2
RESERVE
Quintessential Hawke’s Bay mid tier classics. The Cumulus Méthode Traditionelle Blanc de Blanc, The Wingwalker Viognier, The Fox Moth Merlot and The Barnstormer Syrah among them. -
3
COLLECTION
Easy, relaxed and sociable. Rosé, Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot Cabernet, and the whimsical Beatrix Sparkling Rosé.
The Navigator lead the way with the decision to name the wines in 1997, creating a strong and memorable connection between the individual wines and the brand. Inspirational in this and an integral part of the Alpha Domus brand and landscape has been the close and constant presence of the nearby historic Bridge Pa Aerodrome, and resident Tiger Moths. Across our ranges the goal in mind has always been the quest for excellence and pleasure.
Still seen flying over the winery, the distinctive and magical Tiger Moth has connotations of adventure and romance, beauty and passion, history, and something well made; all elements found in Alpha Domus wines.
