Welcome to Čuvar Winery e-cellar door
A name synonymous with leadership in wine, Sir George Fistonich has a history of success but has always operated with an eye on the future.
Sir George founded Čuvar Winery to help preserve the essence of what makes New Zealand fine wine so special, while nurturing an industry culture that is progressive, regenerative and diverse.
It is apt that Čuvar means guardian in Croatian.
Sir George’s story
George Fistonich was just 21 when he decided carpentry wasn’t his future and instead began to lease one hectare of family vineyard in Mangere in 1961, making wines under the name Villa Maria. What started with five acres of leased land, became a globally recognised brand, with accolades and distinctions, industry awards and a Knighthood for services to New Zealand wine and hospitality industries.
Significantly, Sir George has ensured others can benefit from the foundations he’s built, giving back through cadetships, mentoring, and now, establishing Čuvar as an innovative hub of wine excellence.
Explore our Family of Fine Wines
Discover the Iris Collection - This collection is a contemporary celebration of classic, regional varieties
Sauvignon Blanc – Marlborough | Chardonnay – Hawkes Bay | Rosé – New Zealand | Pinot Noir – Marlborough | Syrah – Hawkes Bay |
Merlot Cabernet Franc – Hawkes Bay | Malbec Merlot – Hawkes Bay
Discover the Guardians Collection - This collection is our Winemakers and Viticulturists' playground
Sauvignon Blanc – Ballochdale, Awatere Valley, Marlborough | Rose – Cornerstone, Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay |
Chardonnay – Rivermere, Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay | Pinot Noir – Ballochdale, Awatere Valley Marlborough |
Cabernet Merlot Malbec – Cornerstone, Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay
Reviews
Čuvar Guardians Collection Rivermere Vineyard Chardonnay 2021
Named Hawkes Bay's Top Wine of the Year at the 2024 Bayleys Hawkes Bay Wine Awards
- Best Chardonnay
- Best Single Vineyard Wine
- Champion Wine of the Show
Čuvar Guardians Collection Rivermere Vineyard Chardonnay 2021
91 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate 2025
"...leads with a tangy and citrusy attack on the palate, with white flowers, fennel seeds, green apple and yellow peach. The finish is a little tart, but it works to present as crunch/freshness. The wine achieves balance between its elements: the oak, phenolics, acidity and fruit aspects all enmesh as one. Its a lovely wine!"
Čuvar Iris Collection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023
93+ Points - Cameron Douglas MS
"There’s no mistaking the purity and pungency of this style and expression, a bouquet of crunchy red apple, tropical fruits and white peaches laced with fresh sage and Thai-basil scents. Crisp and just dry with a satin first touch, vibrant acid line and power with fresh white fleshed orchard fruits, tropical and lime citrus flavours. New, fresh and delicious, a wine ready for drinking from 2024 through 2026."
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