Legacy remembered
Wine scientist Dr David Heatherbell had a major influence on New Zealand's horticulture and wine industry, says two of his colleagues.
In 2024, Selaks (based in Hawke's Bay for the past 20 years) is highly recognisable and remains among the top selling wine brands in New Zealand, "so still successful after 90 years", says Stephen Cheadle, Constellation Brands Managing Director New Zealand and Australia.
Marino, who arrived in New Zealand from his native Croatia in 1906, planted 300 vines on his Henderson property in 1930 and launched his first vintage in 1934.
In 1939 he was joined in the business by his nephew Mate, who took over the business when Marino retired.
Stephen says the 90th celebration will be marked with localised events in all Constellation Brands' locations in this part of the world.
"We are still in touch with members of the Selak family, so we will invite them to take part in our festivities marking this major milestone. It's incredible to think that 90 years after the first bottle was sold, the Selaks brand is still going from strength to strength. It's something we're really proud of. We think it's important to stop and take a moment to reflect and celebrate."
