NZW sets 2025–26 wine and grape levy rates
On 18 June 2025, the New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW) Board set the following levy rates for the year 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
Čuvar (pronounced chu-var) translates to 'guardian' in Croatian, with the label represented by Croatia's national flower.
"The heart of the iris is depicted in our logo and reflects our commitment to circular principles - the guardianship of people, the planet and holistic prosperity," Sir George says, taking the latest step in his lifelong journey with New Zealand wine.
He was 21 when he gave up carpentry to lease one hectare of family vineyard in Mangere in 1961, making wines under the name Villa Maria.
The company became a globally recognised brand, and Sir George earned a knighthood for services to New Zealand wine and hospitality.
Čuvar Winery neighbours the terraced vines Sir George planted in Hawke's Bay three decades agao, formerly Esk Valley Winery. The site is not open to the public yet, but the pioneer who opened New Zealand's first winery restaurant - Vidal's of Hastings - in 1979, has big plans for it.
"Our vision is spacious, sun-drenched patios overlooking the terraced vines and the Pacific Ocean."
