Ata Rangi People: Katie
Introducing the new Ata Rangi Assistant Winemaker, Katie Cameron. Katie grew up in Tauranga, loving all things outdoors and ocean. She has always been fascinated with knowing where her food comes from so it stands to reason she has ended up working in agriculture in some capacity. She is fascinated with how to grow and make things sustainably all with a focus on what good quality really means.
It’s no surprise that this led her to the world of wine, which naturally fits into this philosophy and as a consequence she loves to eat good food, drink good wine and spend time with great people. She’s going to fit in to Ata Rangi just fine!
We asked her a couple of questions to get to know her better.
What brought you to Martinborough?
Before harvest 2020, I had never visited Martinborough and I’d only tasted a handle of wines from here. My initial plan was to work the 2020 harvest and figure out where in the world to go next. I knew after a couple days that this region was special and I would be sticking around for a long time.
How did you get into the world of wine?
My love of plants and horticulture during high school lead me to studying viticulture & enology at University. Plant science is still a huge passion of mine and has helped me throughout my career in wine.
What do you think makes Martinborough so special for wine?
Sense of place has always been a special character that I love from Martinborough wines.
Have you already discovered your favourite Ata Rangi wine? If so, what is it?
Tough question! For me, the Ata Rangi Pinot Noir is always a favourite but I have been reaching for the Masters Chardonnay a lot recently.
What is the one wine you’d love to make?
I will never get sick of making Pinot Noir. It is a grape variety that is so rewarding in many ways.
What is your favourite wine to drink?
Chardonnay & Pinot Noir
When you’re not drinking wine, what is your tipple?
A classic negroni
If you weren’t making wine, what would you be doing?
Gardening and probably regretting not getting into the wine industry!
Katie’s a fan of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Join her for a glass of Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir.