CARRICK - Key Persons
With slightly more experience in the wine trade than he'd like to admit, AJ joined the Carrick team in September 2022 to head up sales.
AJ moved to Central Otago in 1994 to be closer to his beloved ski fields with a side hustle of selling wine in a group of bottle stores to pay for ski passes. A move to Wanaka in 2000 and an inability to leave the wine trade led to a job with one of the country's finest wine distributors, working closely with some of the world's most coveted brands.
AJ joined Carrick to be part of a family owned business that had quality and integrity at its heart but, most importantly, a strong focus on having some fun doing what we do best.
In November 2021, Ashleigh embraced her family's legacy by joining Carrick. Her dedication and drive led her from the vineyard to Front of House and Marketing Assistant, eventually ascending to the role of Cellar Door Manager.
Through her journey, Ashleigh has come to appreciate that to truly understand wine, one must grasp its journey from vine to glass. In her own words, "I've cherished every step of the winemaking process. It enhances the appreciation of every sip."
Cliff's journey began in 2018 when he returned from Australia's Yarra Valley to join Carrick as the Head of Viticulture, overseeing the health of the vineyards and championing organic farming practices.
With a passion for horticulture, Cliff's diverse background in mechanical, building, plumbing, engineering, and viticulture positions him as a valuable asset to the Carrick team. While stepping back from direct vineyard management, Cliff continues to bring his expertise to the broader scope of winery operations as General Manager.
His commitment to organic farming, sustainable practices, and crafting elegant wines that authentically express the region's terroir remains unwavering. Cliff's wealth of knowledge contributes to Carrick's ongoing success, ensuring a harmonious blend of viticulture expertise and managerial leadership.
Originally from Hamilton, Ed found his happy place in the vines through the love of the outdoors, and curiosity of the natural world. He figured the winegrowing regions have the most beautiful weather and landscapes, and after finishing his Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln, naturally gravitated towards the mountains and lakes of Central Otago.
Having established his roots in Central, Ed expanded his expertise through vintages in prestigious regions like Burgundy, Napa, Kelowna, Margaret River, and Marlborough. As a devoted custodian of the land, Ed's mission is to cultivate grapes with the smallest environmental footprint, narrating the unique story of varietal, climate, and site.
Gwen has loved cooking since childhood growing up on an Otago hill country farm where the kitchen was the hub of the homestead. Her career has been shaped by travelling and cooking around the globe. A highlight was working at a Michelin star restaurant in London.
Some of Gwen's favourite things about Carrick are being able to observe the seasonal changes in our vineyard & garden. Central Otago's abundance of seasonal produce. The friendly team environment. Her connection to Bannockburn - her Nana's family settled here during the gold rush. Finally, last but definitely not least, the stunning wines.
Job Titles:
- Food and Beverage Operations Manager
Justin is a passionate food and wine industry manager with 35 years of diverse experience. His journey began in Western Victoria, where as a young enthusiast, he savored the region's culinary delights-from pan-fried abalone to freshly caught snapper, flathead, and the renowned spring lamb, all paired seamlessly with the perfect wine.
Venturing beyond the borders, Justin's path led him to New Zealand, following the allure of snow and the charm of Pinot Noir. Carrick, with its stunning location, exceptional wines, local produce, and a team of passionate individuals, proved to be the ideal canvas for Justin to apply his wealth of knowledge.
As a dedicated manager, leader, and advocate in the industry, Justin is committed to collaborating with you to create unparalleled experiences across the Carrick property. Contact Justin to plan your "Carrick Moment", snow is optional.
Nadine discovered her love for Central Otago when she spent a working holiday backpacking through New Zealand in 2009. But all gap years must come to an end, and she found herself determined to one day live here for good. It was a long road but 5 years ago her dream came true, and she can finally call Central Otago her home. She found her piece of paradise and couldn't be prouder being able to share it with the world.
What she loves most about Carrick is the respect for the land and the passion behind the wines. Being part of something so fundamental to Central Otago - great wine - is what gets her out of bed in the morning. "Do what you love and you'll never have to work another day in your life."
Rosie Menzies joined Carrick in late 2018. Originally from Hawke's Bay, Rosie's interest in wine was sparked by her charismatic 6th form chemistry teacher, who tasked students with making their own wine as a special project. Inspired to make it her career, she completed the Graduate Diploma in Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln University in 2007. Since graduating, Rosie has worked at some of the world's finest producers - Craggy Range (Hawke's Bay), Seresin (Marlborough), GD Vajra (Piemonte, Italy), Chapoutier (Rhone Valley), and Cristom (Oregon).
Her travels around the globe also developed her respect for the influence of organic principles in wine farming and production, a quality that is inherent to Carrick.
Sol as she is known and loved by everyone, arrived in New Zealand as a traveller from her home country Brazil in 2006. Her love affair with New Zealand deepened when she discovered Central Otago wines, and fate brought her to Carrick Winery & Restaurant a decade ago.
With over 10 years of experience, Sol is practically a walking encyclopaedia of Carrick Wines. She is always happy to advice which wine to have, when. Her dedication, warmth, and charisma create unforgettable dining expeeriences for our patrons.