The Winemakers…

Gordon Russell, Senior Winemaker
(New Zealand Winemaker of the Year 2007)

Gordon Russell has established himself as one of New Zealand's most recognised winemaking identities with his passionate approach to winemaking, and the enormous success he has achieved with his wines in tastings and competitions.

Gordon was born in New Plymouth, New Zealand. Following University, Gordon's desire to travel took him to England and Europe for three years.

Gordon had always been interested in different flavours and trying new foods, and during his time abroad he also developed an appreciation for fine wine.

In 1986 Gordon returned to New Zealand, just when the wine styles for which New Zealand has become highly regarded were beginning to emerge.

Gordon was appointed as Esk Valley winemaker in 1993, after working for Villa Maria in Auckland as a cellar hand from 1987 and then as assistant winemaker to Grant Edmonds at Esk Valley from 1990.

Gordon believes that the concept of 'texture' in a wine is as important as the aromas and flavours of the wine. By 'texture' he means the balance and harmony of the wine, together with complexity and palate interest.

He aims to produce premium hand-crafted wines that are both elegant and sophisticated, and which truly reflect the character of the individual vineyards.

dane jarvie, assistant winemaker 

Dane joined the Esk Valley team as Assistant Winemaker at the start of the 2011 vintage. 

"I feel very lucky to be back in the Bay and to be able to work with such a passionate and experienced team. The location of the winery is beautiful and the winery itself oozes character and charm. I also love the open fermenters and the simple approach to crafting small-parcel premium wines. The Esk Valley dedication to quality is reflected in the consistant production of outstanding wines - a tradition I endeavor to contribute to in future"

Dane graduated form EIT in 2007 with a Bachelors degree in Wine Science.

After completeing his degree, he gained valuable experience in the lab and cellar at Vidal Wines in Hastings before heading overseas to work vintages in Sonoma County, California and the Clare Valley, South Australia. He then returned to California for 18 months to fill the role of Assistant Winemaker for Carlisle, a small but leading producer of Zinfandel and red Rhone varietals.