Appellation Marlborough Wine appoints new CEO
Wine certification board Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW) has announced the appointment of Stephanie McIntyre as its new chief executive officer, replacing the outgoing CEO Michael Wentworth.
McIntyre brings more than 20 years of experience to the region, drawing on senior winery marketing roles, international market engagement, media and communications leadership, event creation, and executive positions within wine industry organisations.
McIntyre said the role aligns closely with her professional experience, personal values and admiration for the region.
She said: “Marlborough is a truly unique place to grow wine, and like all precious things, it needs to be protected. We make something special here, and I am proud to be joining an organisation that’s devoted to celebrating extraordinary wine and safeguarding the integrity of our region.
“Amid an ever-changing industry, with all its challenges and opportunities, AMW and its core promises are more valuable than ever.”
A commitment to authenticity
AMW signifies a commitment among 60 vintners in the Marlborough region to uphold high-quality standards. Initiated in 2018, AMW primarily aimed to safeguard the authenticity, origin and integrity of Marlborough’s popular Sauvignon Blanc.
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Wineries earning AMW certification must source 100% of their grapes from Marlborough and bottle the wine within New Zealand.
AMW Chair Sophie Parker-Thomson MW said the Committee is thrilled about the appointment and confident in Stephanie’s leadership. “Stephanie brings outstanding strategic marketing credentials, deep industry experience and a genuine connection to Marlborough,” she said.
Parker-Thomson said the appointment comes at a critical time for the global wine industry.
She said: “At a time of real noise and uncertainty, AMW is the only organisation singularly focused on championing quality and authenticity for Marlborough. The Trust Mark gives consumers confidence that what they are purchasing is a genuine expression of place, backed by rigorous quality standards, while delivering meaningful value for producers.”
In at the deep end
Her appointment comes at a challenging time for wine producers in the Marlborough region. Analysts warned earlier this year that the near future of wine in the region looks set to be “so dire”.
McIntyre’s rhetoric suggests she is ready to play an active role in brightening the region’s future.
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