Neudorf’s Judy Finn to head NZ ‘Family of 12’

Judy Finn of Neudorf Vineyards in Nelson has been elected as the the chair of New Zealand’s ‘Family of 12’ – a collective of 12 of the country’s most prestigious wineries.

Judy Finn, the new chair of New Zealand’s Family of Twelve

Finn, the first woman to be elected to the position, takes over the role from William Hoare of Fromm Winery in Marlborough.

Founded in 2005, the Family of 12 was established with vision to nurture long-term relationships with an emphasis on education in their key export markets.

The ‘family’ comprises Kumeu River, Villa Maria, The Millton Vineyard, Craggy Range, Ata Rangi, Palliser Estate, Neudorf Vineyards, Nautilus Estate, Fromm Winery, Lawson’s Dry Hills, Pegasus Bay and Felton Road.

The group rotates the role of chair “to ensure it benefits from the full range of talent and experience available to it”.

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A statement from the family said that Finn had been a driving force in the evolution of New Zealand’s quality wine industry and a “true pioneer in Nelson”.

As well as owning and running Neudorf Vineyards with her husband, Tim, Judy has been a active promoter of the Nelson region. She served on the Nelson Tasman Tourism Board and has also been a trustee of the Suter Arts Gallery in the city.

Finn has also served as a director on the board of Wellington’s highly successful Pinot Noir 2013, 2010 and 2007. Prior to this she worked in journalism, serving for eight years on the board of Radio New Zealand Limited and four years on the board of Television NZ.

Outgoing chair William Hoare was commended for his “spirited passion and enthusiasm” for the Family of 12. Under his direction the group has undertaken successful events such as the ‘Chardonnay Renaissance’ tastings in Auckland and Sydney, the inaugural ‘MW Family of Twelve Scholarship’ and a UK consumer programme.

On accepting the chairship, Finn commented: “The Family of 12 is a special group – 12 strong individual brands who work together promoting New Zealand and fine wine. We respect each other immensely and want the world to understand New Zealand does not just make good wine – it can make great wine, wine which stands alongside the best in the world.

“The joy of being part of this group is the camaraderie, the viticultural and oenological intelligence and best of all, the sharing of a memorable story over a glass”.