To celebrate the 40th release of Coleraine, we’re sharing stories and recollections behind this iconic New Zealand wine.
Originally released in 1982 as a single-vineyard wine, Coleraine was a bold statement of intent – an expression of what New Zealand red wine could become.
A gold-medal winner on its first release, it set a new benchmark for complexity, structure, and longevity, bringing together precision, blending artistry, and true cellar-worthiness.
Its reputation has been built not only on longevity in the cellar, but on sustained critical acclaim and international recognition, with top scores, trophies, and inclusion among the world’s most collectable wines. Revered by critics, collectors, and peers alike, it has achieved a rare status: both a national icon and a global benchmark.
Forty vintages on, Coleraine stands as a testament to vision, patience, and the quiet authority of a wine that has never needed to announce its greatness – only to prove it year after year in the glass.
New Zealand’s most prestigious wine … nobody dreamed such a wine could be made from New Zealand grapes. Bob Campbell MW
Consistency of quality and style … have been the hallmarks since day one. Jancisrobinson.com
The beating heart of Hawke's Bay in vinous form. Matthew Jukes
The original intention may have been to mirror the top Cru-classé, but today Coleraine has evolved its own style. Andy Howard MW
Head Chef
Josh Emmet
Josh Emett is a leading New Zealand chef and restaurateur (internationally shaped by his time with Gordon Ramsay) who has helped define modern Kiwi fine dining through restaurants like the Oyster Inn, Gilt Brasserie and Onslow.
Closely aligned with the wine world, he contributes to the art of wine by crafting menus that foreground regional produce and create expressive pairings, elevating New Zealand wine as part of a complete cultural and sensory experience.
Josh share his personal experience of Coleraine over decades working with fine food, fine wine, and world class hospitality.
#colerainestories
Wine Ambassador
Mike McRoberts
Mike McRoberts (Ngāti Kahungunu) is one of New Zealand’s most respected broadcasters, Best known for decades anchoring national news, he has also become a visible cultural figure in Hawke’s Bay wine through his role as an ambassador for the region’s flagship wine auction.
While not a winemaker himself, he’s contributed to the art and storytelling of wine by using his public voice, local roots, and collaborations to elevate Hawke’s Bay’s identity and narrative.
#colerainestories
Strategy & Brand Ambassador, EuroVintage
Benjamin Longhurst
Ben is one of New Zealand’s most respected wine professionals, bringing together a deep knowledge of both the Old World and New World wine landscapes. Born and raised in France, Ben began his career in fine wine retail and hospitality before moving to New Zealand in 2004, where he has become a highly regarded figure in Auckland’s wine community. His formal wine education includes a Wine & Spirits Technical and Commercial Degree from ISNAB Bordeaux, alongside the WSET Level 3 Advanced Certificate with Distinction.
As a key member of the EuroVintage team, Ben has spent many years introducing leading wines from New Zealand and around the world to collectors, sommeliers, and fine wine enthusiasts. His connection with Coleraine stretches back to its earliest years, giving him a rare perspective on the wine’s evolution, its place within New Zealand’s fine wine history, and its relationship to the great Cabernet-based wines of Bordeaux. In this conversation, Ben reflects on a wine he has followed for decades and the qualities that have allowed Coleraine to earn its place among the world’s great red wines.
#colerainestories #coleraine2024
Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Wilson Daniels
Shannon Coursey
Shannon Coursey is Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wilson Daniels, one of the United States’ leading fine wine importers and distributors. With extensive experience in sales, marketing and brand development, Shannon works with a portfolio of exceptional producers from around the world, helping connect distinctive wines and their stories with collectors, trade and consumers across the US market.
Since joining Wilson Daniels in 2015, Shannon has played a key role in developing the company’s commercial strategy and strengthening relationships between producers, distributors and the wider wine community. Her perspective brings together deep market knowledge, a passion for fine wine, and an understanding of how the world’s great wine regions continue to evolve and engage new audiences.
