Chris Darling is the owner and winemaker for The Darling Wines in Marlborough New Zealand. Originally from Australia, Chris finished university at Roseworthy and started his winemaking journey around the world. After making a few stops along the way, and making wine for other people for many years Chris has recently started his own wine company "The Darling". Teaming up with Bart Arnst, formerly of Seresin Estate they are making cool climate wines from organically grown grapes. The wines are made with texture on the palate and go very well with and without food.

What was the turning point that made working with wine the right choice for you?

It was seeing people's enjoyment after drinking a bottle of wine and being able to produce that pleasure for other people.

Worst Job in the winery?

Shovelling out the sump of the wastewater.

Most untrusted grape variety? Why?

Albarino or Savagnin or Albarino or Savagnin

Wine you wish you had more of in your cellar?

Cote Rotie

Wine you've always wanted to try but still haven't?

Wendouree from the 90's

If you could make an experimental wine, what grape would you use and what stye of wine would it be?

Cool climate Blaufrankisch, Shiraz Blend. Opulent colour, soft tannins, very drinkable.

If you weren't a winemaker what would you be?

Bored !

Wine region you'd most like to visit?

Northern Rhone

What was the last wine you had a bottle of?

1997 Leasingham Classic Claire Shiraz (New Years Eve)

Worst mistake you've made at work?

Accidental Pinot Gris , Riesling blend. I like to call it a Grisling!

Go to Darling Wines Website