Two well-known New Zealand wine brands, Toi Toi and Coopers Creek, with a combined history of over sixty years, have recently merged their operations. The companies, who have co-operated on many projects over the last decade, have recognised the shared philosophies of the two founders, Kevin Joyce of Toi Toi and Andrew Hendry of Coopers Creek, and banded together under the same umbrella company, Marlborough Wine Ltd (MWL).
The enlarged operation will capitalise on those shared values -family ownership, creating enduring partnerships, conservation of the environment and quality production from NZ grape regions that are recognised as growing the best expressions of each variety. From a business point of view, many synergies exist; established vineyards and winemaking teams; an experienced local sales team, who are excited at the prospect of representing the Coopers Creek range; and closing the gaps in the export markets. Toi Toi are strong in Australia and the USA and Coopers Creek in both Europe and Asia. This will ensure a truly global representation for MWL. Andrew Hendry will continue to run the Coopers Creek division to provide continuity, as will the Coopers Creek winemaker.
The Toi Toi brand was launched in 2006 by Kevin and Sara Joyce. It has grown today to be one of NZ’s top wine brands, with both Sara’s Rose and it’s Clutha Pinot Noir from Central Otago becoming hugely popular with consumers. Kevin says “Our focus has always been on producing exceptional wines from the best regions and Coopers Creek produce some of the best wines in the country. Joining forces with them is a natural progression which we are all very excited about.”
Coopers Creek has earned a reputation for innovation, introducing and pioneering the production of many promising new varieties that have proved ideal for New Zealand’s cool climate conditions over the last twenty years. These have included Albariño, Arneis, Fiano, Grüner Veltliner, Marsanne and Vermentino. This reputation extends to the range of Chardonnay styles it makes, currently five, including the famous Swamp Reserve Hawkes Bay Chardonnay, its flagship white wine since the late 1980s. What has made Coopers Creek unique amongst New Zealand wineries is the depth and breadth of its wine portfolio. As a modestly sized, family-owned producer, Coopers Creek, like Toi Toi, has been making quality wines from many regions including Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, Gisborne, Kumeu and Central Otago.
The Cellar Door at Coopers Creek’s home vineyard in Huapai will continue to operate, but with the range of wines offered being extended to cover MWL’s stable of wines. Also, in great news for its many fans, the popular Summer Sunday Jazz concert will continue to run from early January through to Easter.
For more information contact:-
Kevin Joyce 021 935 849
Andrew Hendry 021 257 8203
