It took a lot of guts in 1962, when George Fistonich – now Sir George – told his dad he was quitting a career in carpentry to try his hand at making wine. The gamble has seriously paid off. Villa Maria is a household name and the acclaimed producer is so successful it holds the coveted title as New Zealand’s most-awarded winery. A benchmark for quality, Villa Maria boasts ripe notes of gooseberry, lime and tropical fruit. Fresh acidity and a dry, refreshing finish mean it’ll make a fantastic partner for white-fish dishes.