On International Women’s Day every year, the voices and stories of women across the world are celebrated, as we address the issues that cause gender inequality and diversity. But despite these issues remaining, such voices and stories take a backseat once the day is done.
We think it’s worth doing the opposite and actively challenging the issues that create these gaps in our industry. So, we’ve launched this weekly series, Wednesday Women, where we’ll profile the stories of the inspiring women in this great and wide industry.
Today we speak with Catherine Wansink, the Australia Market Consultant for New Zealand Winegrowers, whose priorities are providing platforms for New Zealand wine conversations to happen and amplifying the story of what is unique about New Zealand wine.
“My love of New Zealand wine started many years ago whilst living in New Zealand. It was a very special time, and it was a privilege to meet many wonderful people in the industry and to discover, taste, and enjoy New Zealand wine,” she told The Shout.
“The focus of my role with New Zealand Winegrowers is to promote and enhance the distinctive characteristics of New Zealand wine to ensure a world class market position and provide our members with market insights and connection opportunities to drive further value.”
One of the reasons Wansink was initially drawn to New Zealand wine was for its unique qualities. She sees its breadth and diversity as complementary to the cool climate offerings of Australia, making it an excellent option for Australia’s trade and consumers.
“New Zealand wine presents the trade with an opportunity to ladder up with the likes of premium Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Pinot Gris. We’re also seeing an opportunity for premiumisation in Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, such as sub-regions and different styles. Australians still love Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and its distinctive aroma and taste can only come from Marlborough.”
Although there is significant interest from Australian buyers, New Zealand wineries still face distribution challenges in Australia, and while opportunities do exist, Wansink says it can take time for New Zealand winemakers to find the right partner at the right time.
Despite this, she says the Australian and New Zealand wine communities have always had close relationships, and continue to work together to overcome challenges.
“Mateships have been formed over the years as Aussie and Kiwi winemakers do vintages on both sides of the ditch,” says Wansink.
“New Zealand Winegrowers and Wine Australia recently teamed up and held trade days together in the Nordics and the UK, a display of our brotherly relationship that makes sense in that part of the world.”
New avenues for New Zealand wine
Looking to the year ahead, 2025 is already shaping up to be an action-packed year for the New Zealand wine industry, as new doors open in the Australian market and beyond.
“First up there’s Pinot Noir New Zealand 2025 in February. Seventy five iconic wineries from across New Zealand’s regions will present their very best Pinot Noirs, each with an intrinsic sense of place.
“World-leading experts will deliver aspirational and thought-provoking content that celebrates the key themes: place, care, and the time to come. I’m delighted to be hosting a small group of media and sommeliers from Australia at this exclusive event,” Wansink stated.
Further strengthening the relationship between the New Zealand and Australian wine communities, two Australia sommeliers, Liinaa Berry and Cyndal Petty, will experience an immersive programme touring New Zealand’s wine regions, and attend a one-day masterclass called the Sommit. Joining them will be a hand selected group of sommeliers from the USA, UK, Canada, China, Japan and New Zealand.
“To top it all off, Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand celebrates 30 years this year. A remarkable milestone for the industry, one of which I’ll be proud to be part of the celebration,” Wansink added.
With an exciting year ahead for New Zealand wine, Wansink says she is most excited by the continuous evolution of the industry.
“Whilst wine in its purest form is traditional, the way we communicate about wine, consume wine and the innovation we continue to see in styles, brand and experience is impressive, fun and means there is always something new to be across,” she concluded.
