The 2025 vintage marks a major milestone for Central Otago winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis, who celebrates his 20th vintage at Rockburn winery.
His journey began in rural Waimate, a South Island town that's better known for sheep and cattle than Pinot Noir but a degree in microbiology at the University of Otago soon changed all that. And after graduating from university, Rees-Francis immersed himself in the New Zealand wine industry, working in Marlborough and Central Otago, joining Felton Road winery in 2001 as assistant winemaker to Blair Walter. Four years later and after working multiple vintages in Oregon in the United States, he took over the winemaking helm at Rockburn.
The 2025 season began with a frost in early November, which struck at a critical moment in vine growth.
"A swift and successful recovery plan was enacted to stimulate secondary shoot growth," says Tim Severne, general manager of Rockburn.
"The remaining growing season brought near perfect conditions. Above average temperatures through the growing season allowed the vines and fruit to thrive. While overall yields wer down in 2025, the hand harvested fruit is of exceptional quality and Malcolm and the team are excited to make wines with outstanding concentration, finesse and regional expression," says Severne.
"It's a testament to Malcolm’s deep understanding of the vines, soil, climate, oak, and the winemaking process—skills perhaps only a microbiologist-turned-winemaker could truly master."
