Anthony Walkenhorst has been named new Chief Winemaker at Kim Crawford Wines, based in Marlborough, New Zealand. Walkenhorst replaces Matt Large, who had assumed winemaking responsibilities in 2007 from Kim Crawford himself.

A native Australian, Walkenhorst has been with the Kim Crawford Wines’ team since 2005. Based at the Riverlands Winery in Blenheim, he worked closely alongside former winemakers Kim Crawford and Matt Large, collaborating to create the philosophy and style of the wines which continues to thrive today.

Walkenhorst holds a First Class Honours Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Oenology) from the prestigious program at the University of Adelaide, South Australia. Prior to joining Kim Crawford Wines, he worked harvests in Australia (Barossa Valley), the United States (Napa Valley) and Canada (Ontario). His first vintage working with Kim Crawford in 2005 won the Sauvignon Blanc Trophy at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards.

“I’m proud to be the next generation for this pioneering brand and continue the attention to quality, the innovative spirit and the exuberant style that are all the hallmarks of Kim Crawford,” said Walkenhorst.

Founded in 1996 by husband-and-wife team, Kim and Erica Crawford focused on producing world-class quality wines. Kim Crawford Wines has grown to become the leader in luxury-priced Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Kim Crawford Wines are distributed by Constellation Wines U.S.