Andrew Hawker

Giesen Group Limited

Founded by brothers Theo, Alex, and Marcel in 1981, Giesen Wines has been an industry leader for four decades. With an uncompromising drive for quality and strong culture of innovation, the brothers' investment in their people, vineyards and equipment has earned them a reputation as powerhouses in New Zealand wine. In 2017, Giesen Wines expanded to become the Giesen Group. This now incorporates several other well-known brands; Ara Wines champions Marlborough-centric wines (acquired 2016) while Konrad Wines (acquired 2020) specialise in championing the Waihopai Valley. As the portfolio continues to grow, the Giesen brothers have diversified. Their interest in beer saw the creation of Kaiser Bros Beer and partnership in the popular Riverside Market institution, Kaiser Brew Garden. Innovations in the up-and-coming seltzer category and spirit segment represent ongoing opportunities for the ambitious Giesen team. The family-owned company is one of New Zealand's top 10 producers by volume with distribution in over 40 countries. Giesen owns 13 vineyards throughout Marlborough and has longstanding relationships with over 50 of the region's most respected grape growers. This underpins the company's reputation for quality Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, which it creates in more than ten different styles. From the highly-awarded premium Single Vineyard Selection, to the commercially successful Giesen Estate range, Giesen produces wine to be enjoyed at every occasion. While Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has been the backbone of Giesen's success worldwide, they are also known in New Zealand for their best-selling Riesling and sell-out launch of the world's first alcohol-removed Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. With the 2020 purchase of an ex-Constellation winery to supplement the business' growth and the appointment of Duncan Shouler, the guiding hand for many of Giesen's recent innovations, as Chief Winemaker, Giesen Group are sure to continue their impressive growth trajectory.