New Zealand - The Soljans: 75 years of wine making

PRESS RELEASE                                           

Wednesday 3 October 2012

SOLJANS, a name synonymous with the New Zealand Wine Industry, celebrated 75 years of winemaking last Friday. Attending the semi-formal dinner at Soljans award winning restaurant were the Prime Minister John Key and his wife Bronagh, wine industry colleagues, business associates and family and friends of Tony and Colleen Soljan.

There are few wineries in New Zealand that can match this outstanding record of 75 years continuous activity and is an indication of both the maturing of the New Zealand wine industry and the dedication and drive of the Soljans family over the years.

SOLJANS journey started in Croatia and Tony Soljan, when highlighting at the dinner his family’s achievements also paid tribute to the positive contribution that the Croatian community has made to the wine industry and the economy and culture of New Zealand.

SOLJANS initial winery was founded in Lincoln Road, Henderson in 1937. The new winery/restaurant complex in Kumeu was built in 2002. The relocation has taken Soljans to a new level and has built a foundation for growth with tourists and other winery visitors increasing year on year. Close proximity to Auckland and the attractive restaurant and visitor centre has contributed to the growth of the Soljans brand in export markets particularly in China and Asia.

The dinner was accompanied by wines selected by Tony Soljan as appropriate for the occasion which included 2011 Pinot Gris made from the Kumeu vineyard and 2011 Tribute Merlot Malbec which is made to celebrate three generations of Soljans winemakers.

Dessert was accompanied by a glass of history – the newly released Soljans 75^th Anniversary port. Prime Minister John Key, in his address to the assembled guests humorously alluded to Jim Anderton’s ‘sherry tax’ which almost scuttled the New Zealand fortified wine industry and how it is nice to see quality port still being made including the magnificent Soljans 75th Anniversary port.

Mr. Key congratulated Soljans Estate on the 75^th and the celebration of three generations of winemakers who have produced not only great wines but great memories.

He also acknowledged Tony and Colleen Soljan’s contributions to making great wines and as being great New Zealanders.

In all this was a great night to celebrate a milestone in the New Zealand wine industry and the Soljan family – Tony, Colleen, Tonia and Lisa proved themselves as excellent hosts.

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For enquiries please contact: Peter McDonald peter@soljans.co.nz  Telephone:  09 4125858