Following a downturn in returns from traditional pastoral farming in the 1980's Ian and Rachel decided to diversify a proportion of their land from cash cropping to grape growing. They began planting in 1981 and after a series of floods they realised before planting any more land they had to protect their property. The flooding danger was coming from one of Hawke's Bay's major rivers, the Tutaekuri, which is nearby. Together with neighbours they privately built a major stop-bank so they could enjoy their riverside location without risks.

With this completed they have steadily increased their acreage, their expertise and the quality of the grapes they grow.

In 1989 they began making wine from their own grapes in part to ensure that the quality and character of their grapes was available separately and not merged with grapes from other areas.

They chose the "Riverside" brand for their wine because of their location and to give the ambience of their beautiful rural location in the Dartmoor Valley. The wine found a ready market for its unique character based on its terroir and its quality.

For branding outstanding ultra premium quality wine they chose the "Stirling" brand through its connections with their family. Stirling wine is made only from their best grapes and is given additional ageing in oak to maximise its quality.

Increasing demand for their wine particularly from overseas, led to more grape planting which is now coming on stream.