our team
The protagonists of positive change
We’ve gathered a team who believe that boundaries are there to be pushed. We’re united in our love of New Zealand fine wine, and in our goal of making it even better.
PIONEER
Sir George Fistonich
Sir George founded Čuvar after six decades standing shoulder to shoulder with the pioneers who shaped New Zealand's modern wine industry. Renowned for breaking new ground and creating possibilities, his energy and signature bloody mindedness are infectious, and sharing his love of wine remains his greatest joy.
While the day to day running of Čuvar now sits with the team he built, his influence is felt in everything we do. His relentless pursuit of excellence continues to guide us as we write a new chapter in the Fistonich family wine story.
executive director
Karen Fistonich
Sir George’s daughter, Karen sits at the helm of Čuvar Winery to carry forward the Fistonich family legacy with her focus on continuing to produce exceptional wines.
Born into a Croatian family, a passion for wine has been a part of Karen’s heritage from an early age. Karen has long been involved in the family wine businesses with extensive experience in governance and management. Karen is passionate about creating world class wines from Hawkes Bay.
winemaker
Dave Mackintosh
Hawke’s Bay born and back where it all began, Dave has made wine everywhere from Burgundy to the Yarra Valley, creating award-winning labels along the way. An artist at heart and endlessly creative, he’s now bringing that spirit to Čuvar.
VITICULTURIST
Odette Preston
Odette’s love for wine began with food, travel, and working for the publisher of Cuisine Magazine. But hands-on winemaking stole her heart. After earning a Certificate in Grape Growing and Winemaking in 2012, she dove into viticulture, joining Villa Maria Hawke’s Bay in 2016.
With a passion for technical viticulture and a firm belief in quality over quantity, she brings her expertise—and plenty of dirt under her nails—to Čuvar Winery.
Our Story
With his inspiring energy and lifelong dedication to pioneering progression in the wine industry, Čuvar is the vision of legendary wine entrepreneur, Sir George Fistonich.
READ OUR STORY
Our Vineyards
We carefully choose vineyards where we know nature can do its best work, then we trust the seasons to shape the unique distinction of each vintage.
EXPLORE THE VINEYARDSFOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
@cuvarwinery
