Winemaker | Carrick | Central Otago
Growing up in Central Hawke’s Bay, Rosie wanted to work with animals and become a Veterinarian. After not getting into the required programme at University, Rosie defaulted into a Science Degree while still trying to figure out what to do with it. After fondly reflecting on a wine making project she did in her high school chemistry class under wine lover and teacher Marty Marshall, Rosie was led to spending a summer helping out at Lime Rock in Central Hawke’s Bay. This summer at Lime Rock cemented Rosie’s thoughts of pursuing winemaking, and a new path was forged.
So how long have you been in the wine industry?
Since studying in 2007 I have travelled around the world and worked in a variety of roles including viticulture, winemaking, marketing, sales and bottling.
What drew you to the wine industry and made you want to become a winemaker?
It’s the people I have met and the adventures that I have been on because of wine that make me believe it is the right path. I moved down to Central Otago over 4 years ago now and it is for me home.
What goals in the wine industry are you still wanting to achieve?
Make better wine, every year there is something to learn and with wine you have one shot per year to get it right. This means that I feel like the best wines I will make are yet to come.
What would you like to see more of in the New Zealand wine industry?
Creativity and diversity and acceptance of the need for this.
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
Possibly the requirement as a Winemaker to also be a Brand Ambassador, to speak on panels, at wine tastings and hosting dinners. It’s not something I have inherently been comfortable with, but something I’ve had to grow into. I would much prefer to be spending time in the cellar investigating different aspects of why wine acts and evolves in different ways!
What would you say to women considering a career in wine?
Go for it and be authentic. There are plenty of great role models out there to talk to, who I’m sure would be willing to share their knowledge and insight into the industry over a glass of wine or coffee.
Supplied by New Zealand Winegrowers