The Spencer Hill estate was established by Phil and Sheryl Jones in 1990 after deciding to purchase a 73 acre property in the Upper Moutere area close to Nelson on New Zealand's South Island.

The Spencer Hill vines were planted that same year and the winery was built in 1993. The first commercial release of wine was in 1994.  In 1996, Phil planted his Coastal Ridge vineyard on a hillside overlooking both the town of Nelson and the beautiful Tasman Bay. In 2000, Spencer Hill moved its home to this 100 acre property with its stunning views of the Bay and the snow-capped Mount Arthur Range. All Spencer Hill wines are now made from this vineyard.

Under Phil's leadership, and winemaker Matt Rutherford, Spencer Hill wines have garnered awards and accolades from around the world.