Meet The Graduates

The Graduates are a winemaking collective. A concept that began fermenting at winemaking school in Hawkes Bay.

While our roles vary, one thing is constant – our shared belief in the potential of new beginnings, and the desire to craft wines that speak to the heart of those who enjoy it.

We’re more than winemakers – we’re graduates of life, embracing change and celebrating the next chapter, and we want you to be a part of this journey with us.

Let's meet your winemakers.

Meet your winemakers

Irene

Irene is the supervising winemaker at The Graduates. With a unique background in Optics, Irene brings a meticulous, science-driven approach to winemaking, ensuring each bottle reflects the finest qualities of the region.

As a local Martinborough resident, Irene is deeply connected to the community and dedicated to showcasing Martinborough’s exceptional terroir. Irene’s love for wine goes beyond the glass; she actively participates in local wine events, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow wine lovers. Her innovative spirit and commitment to quality make her a standout figure in the vibrant Martinborough wine scene.

Matt

Matt comes to the NZ Wine industry from a background in Film. He loves the collaborative creative process of winemaking (like filmmaking – it takes a village).

With a particular interest in the alternative winemaking methods small batch production can offer he is actively experimenting with new techniques and blending traditional methods with modern practices, "you can expect to see carbonic maceration, chilled reds, and natural wines joining The Graduate's upcoming line up".

Matt also heads up The Graduate's sales and marketing.

Chelsea

Chelsea is an emerging force in the NZ wine industry with a dynamic background in entrepreneurship, digital communications and agribusiness. A true lover of the land she is dedicated to sustainable farming methods and innovations ensuring The Graduates create wines that delight the palate but also honour the earth.

Affectionately known as the 'Boss Lady' to many she brings her vast business experience to the team, managing all the nuances of business operations.

It was a bottle of Riesling and a trip to Tasman which made her fall in love with the art of winemaking. Since this moment she's never looked back.

'Give a busy woman a job and it'll get done.' This couldn't be closer to the truth as Chelsea supports in all elements of The Graduates business, including identifying future opportunities for the trio.