Gordon Russell has established himself as one of New Zealand's most recognised winemaking identities with his passionate approach to winemaking, and the enormous success he has achieved with his wines in tastings and competitions. Gordon was born in New Plymouth, New Zealand. Following university, his desire to travel took him to England and Europe for three years where his interest in different flavours and trying new foods developed, along with his appreciation for fine wine. In 1986 Gordon returned to New Zealand, just when the wine styles for which New Zealand has become highly regarded were beginning to emerge. He was appointed as Esk Valley Winemaker in 1993, after working for Villa Maria in Auckland as a cellar hand from 1987 and then as Assistant Winemaker to Grant Edmonds at Esk Valley from 1990. Gordon believes that the concept of 'texture' in a wine is as important as the aromas and flavours of the wine. By 'texture' he means the balance and harmony of the wine, together with complexity and palate interest. He aims to produce premium hand-crafted wines that are both elegant and sophisticated, and which truly reflect the character of the individual vineyards. Gordon was named as New Zealand Winemaker of the Year in 2007, an accolade befitting his skill and passion for winemaking. In 2018, Gordon celebrated his 25th year as Winemaker for Esk Valley.