Let’s be honest. The world of wine can seem a bit intimidating, especially if you’re new to it. All those swirling glasses and unfamiliar words can feel like they belong in another world. But at its heart, wine is about stories, connection, and simply finding something you enjoy. VILAURA, co-founded by Jascha Oldham-Selak and Sanne Witteveen, brings this spirit to life – a rare blend of heritage, innovation, and genuine warmth that makes the world of wine accessible and full of discovery.
Jascha and Sanne are the driving force behind two game-changing ventures: VILAURA, a premium sparkling-wine brand, and Methode Services, a specialised production facility. Together, they are giving fresh energy to the Méthode Traditionnelle wine industry here in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Uncorking a Family Legacy
Jascha’s story begins with a proud whakapapa, a lineage tracing back to the pioneering Selak wine family. After completing his degree in Viticulture and Oenology in 2018, he set his sights on perfecting Méthode Traditionnelle winemaking, an approach that’s as much about patience and precision as it is about heart. There’s something almost magical about this method: monks in medieval Europe, for example, were among the first to document exactly how each parcel of land shaped their wines, not just for ceremonies but for later generations. This idea of ‘terroir’ – the character a place gives to its wine – resonates deeply with VILAURA’s ethos.
Sanne’s journey adds a creative twist. With an Oenology degree and a gift for design, she approaches winemaking as both an art and a craft. She and Jascha met in Hawke’s Bay, both drawn by a shared curiosity and a vision for New Zealand sparkling wine that celebrates individuality and place.
Together, they created VILAURA, a name that fuses Villa and Aura: “House of Energy.” Since their debut vintage in 2019, they’ve focused on crafting single-vineyard, single-vintage wines that highlight the pure character of Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough, and Central Otago. VILAURA stands out not just for exquisite wine, but for making that excellence feel inclusive; their message is clear: these are wines worthy of everyday celebration.
Intriguing Aspects of Wine Culture
One of the joys of wine is its connection to history. Dive deep enough, and you’ll find stories like the shipwreck in the Baltic Sea, where 19th-century bottles of champagne were discovered and, astonishingly, some remained drinkable. It’s a living record, proof that every bottle holds a moment in time, something Jascha and Sanne treasure, as each VILAURA release echoes the unique stamp of its year and place.
Then there are the unexpected benefits. Wines, particularly reds, have been shown to contain antioxidants like resveratrol, linked to heart health. Enjoyed in moderation, a glass can be part of a balanced, joyful life, a small ritual for connection, whether you’re toasting a milestone or winding down at day’s end.
But perhaps the most inviting side of modern wine culture is how it pairs with life’s simple pleasures. VILAURA’s sparkling wines break all notions of being “just for special occasions.” Try one with classic fish and chips – the wine’s crisp acidity cuts through the richness, making every mouthful brighter. Or reach for VILAURA with your Friday night pizza or favourite spicy curry; pairing local flavours with sparkling wine brings out surprising, delightful contrasts. It’s about experimenting, not following rigid rules.
Precision, Patience, and Purity
What truly sets VILAURA apart is their commitment to time-honoured techniques. Each bottle rests for at least 36 months on lees, this patient method builds texture, depth, and real character. Every step is intentional, from hand-riddling and careful disgorgement to sustainable, thoughtfully designed packaging. Even small details, like the unique date on each bottle, tell part of the story.
Their dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. VILAURA has garnered major accolades, including back-to-back wins at the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa, a testament to the devotion underpinning every vintage.
Supporting the Industry, Inspiring Community
Jascha and Sanne’s influence extends far beyond the bottle. Methode Services, their production facility, began from a personal need but now supports over 40 wineries across the country. It’s a living example of manaakitanga, uplifting others through shared knowledge and support. From Hawke’s Bay to Central Otago, they empower winemakers to pursue excellence, fostering a spirit of collaboration across New Zealand’s wine community.
A Toast to Curiosity
Through VILAURA and Methode Services, Jascha and Sanne have done more than refine a tradition — they’ve made its enjoyment open to everyone. Their legacy is one of partnership, celebration, and everyday magic.
So, here’s your invitation: whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just wine-curious, VILAURA’s story is a reminder that wine isn’t about complexity, but connection. Next time you’re sharing kai or marking a milestone, let your glass be filled not just with wine, but with possibility. You might just discover your new favourite story — one sip at a time.
