Matua winemaker takes up new role at Giesen

The award-winning Kiwi winemaker Nikolai St George has been appointed as chief winemaker of Marlborough-based Giesen Estate Wines, it has been announced.

Nikolai St George moves to Giesen Estate after seven years with Matua Valley Wines (Photo: Matua)

St George takes up the role after having worked for seven years at Treasury’s Matua Valley Wines, the producer of New Zealand’s first Sauvignon Blanc, and wineries in Central Otago and Waiheke Island. He will take up the new chief winemaker position on 25 January, Giesen confirmed.

A prominent and highly respected figure in the wine industry, St George has been named winemaker of the year for three consecutive years by the Auckland Agricultural and Pastoral Association, as well as receiving a string of other awards in his career to date.

Commenting on his appointment, St George said: “It was a tough decision after seven years with Matua but it’s a fantastic opportunity to work with Giesen’s amazing vineyards and to be part of a privately owned company where decisions can be made quickly.

“Giesen’s has done extremely well and I want to help them build on that success.”

Marcel Giesen, owner and director of viticulture and winemaking at Giesen Wines, expressed his delight at St George’s appointment.

“It’s an exciting time here at Giesen Wines,” he commented. “Nikolai will bring a wealth of knowledge and a true understanding of the global wine market that he has amassed over the years.

“His track record is impeccable and we can’t wait for him to become part of the team and help lead our next phase of development in the wine industry.”

Established in 1981, Giesen Wines is privately owned by brothers Theo, Alex and Marcel. They are seen as pioneers of the New Zealand wine industry and own 13 vineyards in Marlborough’s Wairau Valley.

Giesen has built a strong brand both domestically and also on the international stage where it exports premium quality wine across the world. Its Sauvignon Blanc is one of the biggest-selling New Zealand brands in Australia.

Giesen produces a diverse portfolio of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Syrah across its Estate and Premium vineyards.