Established in 1981, the Estate comprises some 75 acres
at Burnham, just south of Christchurch. In Marlborough 360 acres are now
in production.
The Family
The Giesen Wine Estate is a family affair. The three brothers, Theo, Alex
and Marcel run the winery that has grown into an export oriented business.
Winemaker Profile - Andrew Blake
Giesen Wine Estate Winemaker, Andrew Blake, joined the company in November
1997. He studied oenology at Roseworthy College, Australia and graduated
in 1993 with a post-graduate Diploma in Wine.
During his time in Australia Andrew worked at Tyrrells Wines, Rouge Homme
and Rosemount Estate before joining Frenchman Jacques Lurton as a "flying
winemaker". Over the next 18 months he worked in wineries in Spain,
Chile and France returning to New Zealand for some sun and skiing when
time allowed.
Opportunities to work in New Zealand saw Andrew winemaking in Nelson
in 1996 and 1997 before moving to Christchurch and the position at Giesen
Wine Estate .
Export Markets
Giesen Wines are currently exported to North America (USA & Canada),
Europe (England, Luxembourg & Denmark), Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore,
Malaysia & Thailand) and the South Pacific (Australia & Rarotonga).
