After graduating from Roseworthy College in 1972, John honed his craft at Leo Buring before crossing the Tasman in 1979 to join Delegat in Auckland, “where he helped redefine New Zealand table wine”, Hawke’s Bay Wine wrote on announcing the induction.
“By the early 1980s, his pioneering spirit found a home at Morton Estate, where his innovative barrel-fermented Chardonnays – including the now-legendary Morton Estate Black Label Chardonnay – captured national and international acclaim.”
Fruit from the region’s Gimblett Gravels vineyards inspired him, and in 1993 he founded Trinity Hill.
“Together with winemaker Warren Gibson, John crafted benchmark wines, including the iconic Hommage Syrah, that continue to define excellence to this day.”
John is known for his generous spirit, fierce independence, and “unmistakable charm”, they wrote.
“A passionate ambassador for Hawke’s Bay and a tireless advocate for New Zealand wine on the global stage. Whether on the road, in the cellar, or with a guitar in hand, John has always brought energy, authenticity, and conviction to everything he does. His legacy is one of innovation, integrity, and belief – belief in the land, the people, and the power of Hawke’s Bay to produce wines of true world-class calibre.”
