Giesen

Based on the South Island, the family-owned winery sources cool-climate fruit from across the Marlborough and Waipara regions and produced its first vintage in 1984. Giesen is certified sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand, and its Clayvin vineyard is planted with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah.

Giesen launched its alcohol-free range in early 2020 and was among the first major New Zealand wineries to develop 0% wines. It was also the first New Zealand winery to purchase a spinning cone column. The spinning-cone process passes fully fermented wine through a column of spinning cones, removing the alcohol across multiple passes for a gentle result. Because the grapes are fermented before dealcoholisation (meaning the wine is fully fermented and then the alcohol removed), the wines are classified as wine rather than a grape-based drink.

The range spans sparkling, white, rosé and spritz styles. Giesen also produces an ultra-premium 0% tier under the Vice label and alcohol-free wines under the Ara brand. One of its drinks has won awards.

Giesen exports to more than 40 countries. The brand holds the number-one position among premium alcohol-free brands in the United States and ranks among the top three in the same category in Australia. The Giesen Group is part of the Opici Wines and Spirits portfolio, with distribution spanning mainstream retail and specialist alcohol-free stockists.