Welcome to Carrick
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We are farmers, winemakers, chefs, and enthusiasts, combining our unique backgrounds to craft wines in this special corner of Bannockburn, Central Otago.
Owners
Taking over as owners of Carrick Winery and Restaurant is a dream come true for Alison & Tony. For years, Carrick has been their favourite place to visit on trips through Central Otago.
Alison and Tony's background began in dairy farming. Over the years, this has expanded to founding a management company, managing assets for others and their own. Today, FarmRight manages assets in dairy, beef, viticulture and horticulture across New Zealand and Australia.
Now living at the vineyard and playing an active role in the business, Carrick benefits greatly from Alison's creative nous and Tony's skills in governance.
E: ali@carrick.co.nz
P: Ali+64 21 380 079, Tony +64 27 220 6968
General Manager
Cliff's journey began in 2018 when he returned from Australia's Yarra Valley to join Carrick as the Head of Viticulture, overseeing the health of the vineyards and championing organic farming practices.
With a passion for horticulture, Cliff's diverse background in mechanical, building, plumbing, engineering, and viticulture positions him as a valuable asset to the Carrick team. While stepping back from direct vineyard management, Cliff continues to bring his expertise to the broader scope of winery operations as General Manager.
His commitment to organic farming, sustainable practices, and crafting elegant wines that authentically express the region's terroir remains unwavering. Cliff's wealth of knowledge contributes to Carrick's ongoing success, ensuring a harmonious blend of viticulture expertise and managerial leadership.
Winemaker
Rosie Menzies joined Carrick in late 2018. Originally from Hawke’s Bay, Rosie’s interest in wine was sparked by her charismatic 6th form chemistry teacher, who tasked students with making their own wine as a special project. Inspired to make it her career, she completed the Graduate Diploma in Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln University in 2007. Since graduating, Rosie has worked at some of the world’s finest producers – Craggy Range (Hawke’s Bay), Seresin (Marlborough), GD Vajra (Piemonte, Italy), Chapoutier (Rhone Valley), and Cristom (Oregon).
Her travels around the globe also developed her respect for the influence of organic principles in wine farming and production, a quality that is inherent to Carrick.
Sales Manager
With slightly more experience in the wine trade than he’d like to admit, AJ joined the Carrick team in September 2022 to head up sales.
AJ moved to Central Otago in 1994 to be closer to his beloved ski fields with a side hustle of selling wine in a group of bottle stores to pay for ski passes. A move to Wanaka in 2000 and an inability to leave the wine trade led to a job with one of the country’s finest wine distributors, working closely with some of the world’s most coveted brands.
AJ joined Carrick to be part of a family owned business that had quality and integrity at its heart but, most importantly, a strong focus on having some fun doing what we do best.
Sales Representative
Growing up in a family of devoted wine collectors who cherished the joy of wine shared with friends and family, Ashleigh's fascination with wine blossomed.
In November 2021, she embraced her family's legacy by joining Carrick, taking on various roles across the vineyard, Front of House, and as Marketing Assistant. Her commitment and expertise led her to the position of Cellar Door Manager, where she deepened her connection with customers and the wine journey, from vine to glass.
Now, as Carrick's Sales Representative, Ashleigh continues to share her passion and knowledge, ensuring every bottle tells its unique story. In her words, "I've cherished every step of the winemaking process. It enhances the appreciation of every sip."
Food and Beverage Operations Manager
Justin is a passionate food and wine industry manager with 35 years of diverse experience. His journey began in Western Victoria, where as a young enthusiast, he savored the region's culinary delights—from pan-fried abalone to freshly caught snapper, flathead, and the renowned spring lamb, all paired seamlessly with the perfect wine.
Venturing beyond the borders, Justin's path led him to New Zealand, following the allure of snow and the charm of Pinot Noir. Carrick, with its stunning location, exceptional wines, local produce, and a team of passionate individuals, proved to be the ideal canvas for Justin to apply his wealth of knowledge.
As a dedicated manager, leader, and advocate in the industry, Justin is committed to collaborating with you to create unparalleled experiences across the Carrick property. Contact Justin to plan your "Carrick Moment", snow is optional.
Cellar Door Manager
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Melissa discovered her passion for wine in Rome while studying psychology. After graduation, she decided to pursue viticulture and oenology, which led her to Lincoln University in 2019. What was meant to be a six-month stay turned into a permanent move as she fell in love with New Zealand.
Melissa first joined Carrick during the 2019-2020 summer season, working in the vineyard. After gaining winemaking experience around the region, she returned as Cellar Door Manager. Now, as a proud New Zealand resident, she brings her expertise and passion for wine to the Carrick team, ensuring every visitor leaves with a memorable experience.
Premium Experience Manager
If you hear laughter ringing through Carrick, chances are Ceri is at the heart of it. A former athlete turned wine aficionado, Ceri’s love affair with wine began with a single sip of Central Otago Pinot Noir—an experience so powerful it set her on a whole new career path.
With nearly a decade in viticulture, five years in winemaking, and a stint at one of New Zealand’s top luxury lodges, she knows how to craft unforgettable moments. Full of beans and always up for a great chat, Ceri brings energy, expertise, and a personal touch to every premium experience at Carrick.
Head Chef
Gwen has loved cooking since childhood growing up on an Otago hill country farm where the kitchen was the hub of the homestead. Her career has been shaped by travelling and cooking around the globe. A highlight was working at a Michelin star restaurant in London.
Some of Gwen’s favourite things about Carrick are being able to observe the seasonal changes in our vineyard & garden. Central Otago’s abundance of seasonal produce. The friendly team environment. Her connection to Bannockburn - her Nana’s family settled here during the gold rush. Finally, last but definitely not least, the stunning wines.
It is this attention to seasonal and local produce which compliments the wine and surroundings, which has seen her kitchen team win several awards.
Welcome to Carrick
By entering this site, you agree that you are of legal drinking age in your country.
View our Privacy Policy
We are in the process of updating this booking system. It should be back up within a couple of days.
If you would like to book a tour & tasting in the meantime, please navigate to the Restaurant page and click on "book a table" - you'll be able to book a tour & tasting there.
Thank you
We are in the process of updating this booking system. It should be back up within a couple of days.
If you would like to book a tour & tasting in the meantime, please navigate to the Restaurant page and click on "book a table" - you'll be able to book a tour & tasting there.
Thank you