FRIZZELL

"I have always been interested in wine but when Jude and I came back to live in Hawke’s Bay six years ago we were amazed at how the local wine scene had become such a big thing. It was wonderful - full of the sort of people we love. Creative, dedicated, down to earth producers. It’s fair to say we were captivated. And we wanted to be part of it. Over the last few years wine has introduced us to a lot of great friends and, as you’d expect, the decision to launch FRIZZELL wines was sealed over a few glasses of red with some of them. I also knew I wanted to make small batches. This meant I could develop different labels and release limited edition wines. It’s the way I’ve always done things. And I like working like that. Right from the first tastings with Rod McDonald (my consultant winemaker and a local legend!) I knew we were on the right track. In fact I couldn’t be happier." - Dick Frizzell.

ROD MCDONALD

Rod is one of the most respected individuals working in the New Zealand wine industry today. After a glittering career as Chief Winemaker at Vidal Wines, culminating with a New Zealand Winemaker of the Year title, Rod left Vidal to develop his own brand – No.8 Wines Limited. No.8 focuses on ultra-premium Syrah - Rod’s personal passion. Rod also founded RM Wines Ltd a contract winemaking and consulting company, with an impressive list of vineyard clients throughout Hawke’s Bay and beyond. In 2007, Rod joined Matariki Wines as CEO / Chief Winemaker and now consults as Chief Winemaker. This move has given Rod the flexibility to be involved in other projects, most excitingly Frizzell Wines - a collaboration with one of NZ’s most loved Artists, Dick Frizzell.