Karen is a true Kiwi girl from the south who has since found her home in Blenheim. Two months ago, Karen started her first day at the Saint Clair Family Estate as our newest Laboratory Technician, eager to be hands-on working with such a wide range of grape varietals and to be amongst a small family-like work environment. Her first week was jam-packed, getting to know everyone’s faces and names, she was not yet two steps in the door when Neal Ibbotson, CEO and Founder, laid down the most important rule here at Saint Clair Family Estate, “To Have fun” … and never argue with the boss 😉.
Karen’s attitude towards work is very much the same towards her favourite Saint Clair wine: Dawn, in saying “Whoever said less is more clearly wasn't a bubbly drinker". Welcome, Karen!
Benjamin or ‘Ben’ as we know him, is a face at Saint Clair you would regret to miss. Born in the UK, Ben’s first week with the Team was back in 2021 pre-vintage. The weather was warm, and times were exciting and while two years down the track despite the cooler temperatures, Bens attitude towards the cellar has remained as upbeat as ever.
Bens excitement to continue from vintage 2021 to 2022 onwards is what motivates others in the workplace, quoting “I’m a big Saint Clair advocate and tell all my friends and family in the UK to buy it when they see it!” When asked for his favourite Saint Clair wine, Ben’s response was short and sweet. “2013 Cabernet Merlot”. What a choice!
Rocio is 29 years old and from Mendoza, Argentina. In 2019 she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Oenology and is currently working as a Cellar Hand in our Saint Clair Winery. Rocio’s first week with the team was exciting despite not being new to the industry as she began her 9th vintage!
When asked, Rocio said she was most excited for vintage to start. “For me, it's the most exciting and fun period to work in the winery”. 2022 was her first harvest in the Saint Clair winery and she really enjoyed it. She quotes “The team was great, I felt very welcomed since day one, so I think that made me want to become permanent here.”
Welcome, Everyone!
