Ever since the Gunn family planted their first vineyard in 1983, Denis Gunn has been actively involved in the winery’s development. Initially he worked on the vineyards, mastering every aspect of successful viticulture – planting to harvesting, and every detail in between.
The decision to formally extend his knowledge saw Denis embark on a Certificate in Grape Growing and Winemaking at the Eastern Institute of Technology in Hawke’s Bay. During this course, Denis worked vintages with other well known Hawke’s Bay wineries. This experience exposed him to winemaking at the highest level.
On completion of his qualification, Denis had a thirst not only for wine but for further knowledge. He headed across the Tasman to Australia to enrol in the degree course at Roseworthy Agricultural College, emerging with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Oenology at the end of 1992.
Fortunately for New Zealand’s wine industry, Denis brought his now considerable knowledge and skills home. He gained practical experience with a number of leading New Zealand producers, but remained true to his passion for the quality and diversity of Hawke’s Bay wines.
Denis’s winemaking (and drinking) philosophy is simple: “Wine is a drink to make you feel good, so if you like it, drink it. Consumers don’t need to get bogged down with the technical aspects of wine - that’s our job. We focus on creating an enjoyable experience for anyone who buys into our dream”.
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