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Villa Maria is one of the most famous and respected wine brands in New Zealand. It is a symbol of quality, innovation, and the determination of one man who turned a small vision into a global icon.

The story of the brand begins in 1961, when 21-year-old George Fistonich, the son of Croatian immigrants, rented from his father a single acre of land in Mangere near Auckland. On this small plot, he planted vines and named his winery Villa Maria. From the very beginning, he decided to focus on quality and meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar. Gradually, he expanded, and his wines gained respect both at home and abroad.

Villa Maria is considered a pioneer of modern New Zealand winemaking. As early as the 1970s, it paid grape pickers based on quality, not quantity, motivating growers to adopt a craft approach. In 2001, it became the first winery in New Zealand to introduce 100% screw caps for all its wines. This move was bold at the time and many questioned it, but it later inspired the entire industry. The company also invests in sustainable practices, eco-friendly farming, and reducing its environmental footprint.

The winery has its vineyards in several key regions of New Zealand. In Marlborough, it grows Sauvignon Blanc, which has gained worldwide fame for its freshness, tropical fruit, and citrus notes. Hawke’s Bay is home to red wines – especially Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. In the regions Auckland and Gisborne, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris thrive. The brand's portfolio ranges from accessible wines for everyday drinking to premium series Villa Maria Reserve and Single Vineyard, which represent the best terroir of the country.

Since the 1980s, Villa Maria has regularly appeared among the most awarded wineries in New Zealand. It has won hundreds of medals and titles at prestigious competitions such as the Decanter World Wine Awards and International Wine Challenge, and is among the most admired wine brands in the world.

Interestingly, founder George Fistonich was knighted in 2009 for his contributions to the development of the wine industry – he became Sir George Fistonich. The winery remained a family business for more than 60 years, until 2021, when it came under the management of Indevin. Villa Maria wine is often referred to as the "ambassador of New Zealand," as it played a role in establishing the country's reputation as one of the most significant wine destinations in the world.

Today, Villa Maria embodies the New Zealand spirit: boldness, innovation, a focus on quality, and respect for nature. What started as a dream of one young man with a single acre of vines is now enjoyed in more than 60 countries around the world and represents a synonym for premium New Zealand wine.