CHAIRPERSON SEES NEW VIBRANCY IN LOCAL WINE INDUSTRY
Jeremy Corban (Big Sky Wines) was elected Chairperson of promotional body Wines From Martinborough at the 2014 AGM, with Nicola Belsham (Murdoch James Estate) as deputy.
Winemaker for Big Sky Wines, Jeremy co-owns the Te Muna property with his wife Katherine Jacobs. He observes that winemakers are feeling positive at the moment.
“There’s a new vibrancy in the industry. I get a real sense of optimism and confidence. At the start of the season, people had a few concerns, but at the moment it’s just great. 2015 looks like another classic Martinborough vintage,” he said.
His comments are echoed by Larry McKenna (Escarpment Vineyard). “We’re loving it. Grapes love warm weather”, while cautioning that ”this year’s weather pattern is unusual and could change”.
John Kavanagh (Chief Winemaker, Te Kairanga Wines) is also optimistic. “It’s too early to call, but this year is tracking in the right direction for a really good vintage,” he said.
Jeremy is also the principal of Big Sky Consulting, a consulting firm specialising in economics, public policy, and public management. His previous roles include Deputy Secretary of the NZ Treasury, and Deputy Chief Executive of the Department of Labour.
As Marketing and Sales Manager of Murdoch James Estate, Nicola Belsham has an extensive background in wine retailing, in the UK and New Zealand. She is the wine columnist for FishHead Magazine, and formerly a graphic designer and illustrator.
The Wines from Martinborough board believe the complementary skills and experience Jeremy and Nicola bring will be valuable in a potentially game-changing year with the regional organisation and branding discussions shaping the future.
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