In 2023, the Fistonich family unveiled Čuvar Winery, a boutique operation spearheaded by Sir George Fistonich and now managed by his daughter Karen. This venture diverges significantly from Villa Maria, the global wine giant established by Sir George in 1961. While Villa Maria focused on Sauvignon Blanc and mass-market appeal, Čuvar concentrates on premium Chardonnay, fine wine merchants, and independent retailers. The winery aims to redefine New Zealand’s fine wine landscape through its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation.
Čuvar's inception follows the sale of Villa Maria to Indevin in 2021, marking a significant shift for Sir George. With vineyards primarily located in Hawke’s Bay rather than Marlborough, Čuvar emphasizes Chardonnay production over Sauvignon Blanc. The decision reflects the region’s potential to produce world-class expressions of this varietal, supported by strong consumer demand. Under Karen Fistonich’s leadership, Čuvar has positioned itself as a contemporary-classic winery dedicated to balance, structure, and subtlety in its wines.
The winery’s first commercial release featured a single-varietal Chardonnay from the 2020 vintage, priced at NZ$45. Its lower-tier offerings start at NZ$25, reflecting a focus on quality over quantity. Dave Mackintosh, part of Čuvar’s winemaking team, expresses excitement about the 2025 harvest, highlighting exceptional acidity and citrus notes that promise balanced, high-quality wines.
Beyond Chardonnay, Čuvar also ventures into rosé with two distinct offerings: a 100% Cabernet Franc expression priced at NZ$33.99 and another blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah named Iris, available for NZ$24.99. These additions underscore Čuvar’s ambition to cater to diverse tastes while championing Hawke’s Bay’s unique terroir.
While Čuvar strives to carve its own identity, it acknowledges Villa Maria’s legacy. Some vineyards previously supplying Villa Maria now exclusively serve Čuvar, ensuring access to premium fruit sources like Cornerstone in Gimblett Gravels. Additionally, Čuvar leverages existing distribution networks where appropriate but seeks new partnerships to align with its premium positioning.
Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Čuvar’s philosophy. Although currently farmed conventionally, the winery prioritizes vine health and sustainable practices, remaining open to organic certification in the future. As a Green Star-rated building, Čuvar’s facility exemplifies environmental responsibility, aiming to reduce carbon footprints significantly.
Looking ahead, Čuvar envisions expanding its culinary offerings at its Napier winery. Sir George Fistonich, who pioneered New Zealand’s first winery restaurant in 1979, sees an opportunity to create another destination blending food and wine culture. This initiative underscores the family’s enduring passion for enriching the wine experience beyond mere production.
Čuvar Winery represents more than just a new project; it embodies Sir George Fistonich’s vision for elevating New Zealand’s fine wine reputation. By focusing on quality, sustainability, and innovation, Čuvar positions itself as a trailblazer in the industry, ready to make waves both locally and internationally. Through its distinctive approach, the winery honors its roots while forging a path toward a bright future in the global wine arena.