Cloudy Bay winemaker quits to pursue his own label

Founding winemaker of Cloudy Bay, Kevin Judd, will leave the company and start his own label next year after 25 years with the winery. From the beginning of 2009, Judd will become consulting winemaker for the Marlborough producer, with a complete departure in July.

During his time at Cloudy Bay, Judd has been credited with the success of the pioneering brand and its style of wine. In an amicable departure that was announced yesterday, Judd has decided to “pursue his own personal interests, further develop his photography business and establish his own label.” It is not yet known where his new wine project will be based.

Judd said: “When I was offered the winemaking role with Cloudy Bay back in 1984 there was no vineyard, no winery and no name. It is with great pride that I hand over the baton to the Cloudy Bay team. It has been a very rewarding, unique and thoroughly enjoyable journey.”  

 Without Judd, the Cloudy Bay winemaking team consists of Eveline Fraser, Nicholas Lane and Tim Heath.

Jane Parkinson 10/12/08