Matt Connell

Akarua is pleased to announce the appointment of award winning winemaker Matt Connell as their new Winemaker and Manager for the 2009 vintage.

Matt developed his passion for pinot noir while winemaking in Oregon at respected American pinot noir producer Elk Cove wines. He then returned to New Zealand for the 2005 vintage as winemaker at Central Otago producer, Olssens wines where he won numerous awards including 2007 Winestate Australasian pinot noir of the year and the Mike Wolter Trophy and Champion Wine of show at the 2008 Bragato wine awards. In addition to making Olssens wines Matt produced award winning wines under contract for Bannock Brae Estate, Kingsmill wines and Waitiri Creek wines.

Matt's record of achievement at New Zealand wine shows was highlighted again at the 2009 Royal Easter Show wine awards where five out of the eleven gold medals awarded to New Zealand pinot noir went to wines that Matt produced in 2007. This result saw all wine companies that Matt represented in 2007 being awarded a gold medal for pinot noir at one show.

Matt says “I cant wait to get my hands on the amazing fruit that Akarua produces. I aim to add my mark to the style of wine produced and look forward to being part of the team that takes Akarua to the forefront of New Zealand pinot noir production.”