A New Chapter Ahead
A Legacy of Excellence
Chief Winemaker Michelle Richardson has had a long and successful winemaking career, much of it spent working with the Fistonich family, with her first vintage in 1992. Her commitment to quality and innovation has helped shape the flavour profiles, depth, and international reputation of their wines over many decades.
Now, following the resounding success of Čuvar, Michelle is embarking on a new professional chapter, transitioning into a consultancy role for us. This shift allows her to explore new challenges, broaden her expertise, and continue influencing premium winemaking across the industry.
Through her consultancy, we will continue to benefit from Michelle’s unparalleled knowledge, ensuring that our wines maintain the excellence that has long been synonymous with the Fistonich name.
A Family Business at Heart: Karen Fistonich at the Helm
With Sir George stepping back, daughter Karen stepped into the company leadership role in 2024, bringing a fresh perspective while staying true to the Fistonich family principles. Karen admires her father’s foresight in starting to prepare her for leadership over 30 years ago. Coincidently, the year that Michelle completed her first vintage working for Sir George, is also the year that she joined her father as a company director on the board. Sir George’s wise words to her was that she had to be part of the company decision making to prepare her for the future. Karen worked with her father for approximately 28 years, both as a director and took part in many company projects.
A Future Rooted in Excellence
Since our launch in 2023, our wines have quickly gained recognition, winning Hawke’s Bay’s top wine award last year for the Čuvar Guardians Chardonnay, and our wines are already beginning to collect enviable Parker Points
As Karen leads us into the future and Michelle Richardson embarks on new ventures, one thing is certain: the Fistonich legacy will continue to thrive.
