Martin Mackenzie

Meet Martin Mackenzie, the renowned winemaker hailing from New Zealand. His journey into the world of wines began in his late 20s when he discovered his true passion. After moving to Hawkes Bay, he pursued his dreams by studying Viticulture and Oenology at the Eastern Institute of Technology, excelling as the top student.

Martin’s career took a significant turn when he landed an internship at Stonyridge Vineyard, an iconic organic red wine producer in New Zealand, located in Waiheke Island. His dedication and expertise shone through, and he was offered the position of assistant winemaker, marking the beginning of a successful decade-long tenure at Stonyridge.

Over the years, Martin’s talent and hard work propelled him to the position of winemaker and general manager in 2007. His exceptional winemaking skills were validated when Stonyridge Cabernet Sauvignon received a remarkable 96 points from Wine Advocate, a testament to the quality of his creations.

After leaving Stonyridge, Martin ventured to Sonoma, California, where he joined Petroni Vineyards. Here, he collaborated with esteemed winemakers Mark Neal and Tony Biaggi to craft small-production, handcrafted biodynamic wines, further solidifying his status as a master winemaker.

With an impressive portfolio of accolades and an unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines, Martin Mackenzie continues to be an inspiring figure in the world of winemaking. His journey from New Zealand to Sonoma showcases his passion for the craft and the global impact of his expertise.